Where are you from?
Columbus, Ohio
Why and when did you get involved in Libraries?
I started working in libraries as an undergrad at the Catalog Department at the Ohio State University. After graduation, I accepted a position at the State Library of Ohio and had a number of paraprofessional positions for quite a few years. Finally, after about ten years of working at the State Library, I decided to attend library school at Kent State University. During library school (and after graduation), I had two jobs: my "day" job was as a Social Sciences Research Specialist/Librarian at a large state agency, and the other was as a weekend Reference Librarian at Columbus State Community College.
What was your first career?
Library Technician at the State Library of Ohio in their Circulation & Interlibrary Loan Departments. Along with that position, I had a number of moonlighting & weekend jobs, primarily to figure out what I wanted to do. I worked in retail, in marketing, and at a couple radio stations
Current job title?
Urban Studies Librarian, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV Libraries)
What drew you to that area of librarianship?
I felt this position was a really good fit for me, because the subject areas focus on the social sciences, including my undergrad majors (in Communication & Journalism). I also enjoy the combination of reference, instruction, and collection development.
What have you done in NMRT?
Since 2003, I've been a member of the Resume Review Service Committee (and co-chair of this committee from July 2003-June 05). I also was a member of the Shirley Olofson Award Committee in 2003-04.
How has NMRT involvement helped you?
NMRT has been a really great experience for me! Although I worked in libraries for quite some time, I wasn't a member of ALA until 2003. NMRT allowed me to meet and network with other ALA "newbees." NMRT also provided me with some really wonderful committee appointments and some great leadership opportunities.
What do you do when you're not being a SuperLibrarian?
I enjoy traveling, hiking, researching pop culutre topics, reading tell-all biographies, and lots of music and trivia from the '60s & '70s. I also enjoy margaritas by the pool, when weather permits (which is fairly often in Las Vegas!)
What are some of future goals in librarianship?
Over the next few years, I hope to work more closely with faculty in designing classes that focus more on information literacy initiatives. I would also like to play more of a leadership role in mentoring new librarians. I'm also working towards tenure this year!