Original interview published in Trails Regional Library Newsletter, Issue 2, Fall 2021.
How long have you worked at Trails?
I have been with Trails Regional Library for nearly 3 years. I started in the fall of 2018.
Can you share a little bit about your background before you came to work at the library?
I’ve worked in a number of customer service roles before getting into libraries. While working on my library degree, I worked part-time at Avila University and the University of Missouri – Kansas City. In these roles I provided reference services, worked with undergraduate students on their information literacy skills, and got started with cataloging and collection maintenance.
What is your favorite part of the job? Why?
Collection development is undoubtedly the best part of my job. I love learning about upcoming book releases and doing everything that I can to ensure that the library has stories for everyone where they can relate or see themselves. Also, I am a foodie and we always have a stream of amazing cookbooks coming in.
Do you have any special projects that you do for the library?
Besides my daily work managing the collection and our catalog, I also collaborate with libraries around the state to make sure that we can share our collections and bring in titles that might not be on the shelves at Trails. I also helped to bring in and maintain our self-checkout kiosks. These are an easy and fast option for visitors who may want more privacy or to maintain some distance during the pandemic.
Any other hobbies or interests outside of the library?
I love listening to a good audiobook while taking my dog for a walk. Besides that, I play a fair amount of video games, and do some cooking or baking on the side.
You can only take one book to a desert island. What book, and why?
For the sake of practicality, I’d bring a book on how to build a raft. If that were not an option, I think that I could stay entertained by a lengthy fantasy novel, something like The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon or A Natural History of Dragons by Marie Brennan.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you, your job, or the library?
Libraries are for everyone and we certainly have something in our collection for you. If you can’t find what you are looking for at Trails, chances are we can find a way to get it for you. Never be afraid to ask us! Also, listening to audiobooks on my phone has changed my life! Being able to read while doing chores or going on a walk has really increased my ability to get through my reading list. I highly recommend using the Libby app.