Library Staff Spotlights

Arizona Daily Star Library Staff Spotlights

Since 2014, Library staff have contributed to a monthly column in the Arizona Daily Star.

In it, they’ve shared stories of what they love about their work, what inspired them to pursue their path in librarianship, and what our community means to them.

Contributors come from all service levels, systemwide, and have highlighted the many things that make PCPL special, and allowed readers a peak into the world of serving the public in a place open and accessible to all.

AZ Daily Star Card Collection

Point them toward the library

"Working here has helped me build confidence and plan my future, and I wish these blessings and opportunities on as many others as I can."

I absolutely love being a children's librarian

As a children’s librarian I create fun, engaging programs for kids, recommend books, and help children develop a lifelong love of reading.

Bringing community together through books

"Books can inspire you, hurt you, make you think, and help you love more. They’re an escape, a mirror, a friend, a necessity."

The school is virtual, but the diploma is real

"Working as a Career Support Librarian and a liaison between COHS and PCPL is to help connect people to information and resources." - Jon M.

Sometimes, the best things in life really are free!

"The library is ready and waiting to be explored by you, provided you take the first leap- and I, for one, can’t wait to see you there!"

Libraries are just the coolest

"I have the very best job at Pima County Public Library. Yes, I’m the winner, it’s me." - Elizabeth T. It shouldn’t surprise anyone…

What they left behind so I could thrive

"This year I celebrate 13 years with PCPL and as Alexis Rose from Schitt’s Creek would put it, 'Um, love that journey for me.'" - Paulina

Beyond the Library Stereotype

"What does the word library really mean? To me, it means energy, life, learning, community. It means opportunity. It means access." - Jen G.

Growing, dreaming, and reaching for more at the Library

"I’m thankful for the opportunities I’ve been provided and to have found a career that is personally fulfilling and enjoyable." - Marissa

From Storytime customer to Seed Library co-founder

"The Seed Library has been such a gift to my career. It has been one of my greatest joys to watch it grow throughout Pima County." - Kelly

Nearly two decades in, still loving what I do

"We've had fake snowball fights, squished polymer sand between our fingers, and made indoor obstacle courses out of pool noodles." - Leila

A safe space to explore community and creativity

"Working with kids is amazing. When school’s out, we get an influx of kids from the school next door, excited to tell us about their day."

I wanted to be part of that kind of organization

"I may not be able to make the whole world better, but I can make my corner better." - Jana B.

My Story - An Unexpected Librarian

"Inclusion is a key element of our society, as well as in the Library system, and is what makes this country strong." - Sharon

Rebellion through extreme empathy and understanding

"Library science is possibly the coolest thing in the entire world... I have the coolest job in the world." - Paige, Flowing Wells Library

Creating conditions where others grow and flourish

"The garden is a part of our effort towards a complete library system in service to everyone accessing all that they require." - Jeff M.
Back to Top