When I began working at the Handley Library as a Reference Assistant in 2018, it was a blessing and an honor to be able to work in my childhood library – a place I had been coming to since I was 4 years old, a place that had been a friend to me all my life. During my time at the Library, I have come to fully realize how important the Library is to the community it serves, and that I want to be a lifelong steward of this essential relationship.
I believe that the Library is the most democratic institution our society has. I see this every day in my work, as I help people apply for citizenship, learn languages, apply for jobs, work towards degrees and certificates, create wills, find housing, find health coverage, get things notarized. Not to mention that the Library is a lifeline for those without Internet access, in a world where most business is now conducted online. The Library’s resources create an equal playing field for all, a safe and non-judgmental space where anyone can come to find information, inspiration, or to work toward their goals. Technology will continue to develop and evolve; I want to use my career to ensure that the Library remains essential, accessible, and safe.
That is why I have chosen to pursue a Master of Library and Information Studies. A MLIS will give me the skills to be a truly dynamic professional in this field – to be able to identify the community’s ever-changing information and technology needs and effectively meet them. It is my hope that – now I have found my voice – my graduate studies will also help me develop my strengths as a Library advocate. I can think of no better career choice than one in service to and with the Library.