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 peek into the world of serving the public in a place open and accessible to all.
AZ Daily Star Card Collection
Suppressing ideas today will help suppress ideas tomorrow
"Why does anyone want to censor books? They are education, they are an escape... yet censorship has always been a part of human history."
Spreading library love from Ajo
"I arrived in Tucson the year I turned 19—one of the first things we did was go to Kirk-Bear Canyon library to get our library cards."
Healing Through the Practice of Information
"We practice both professional and personal information and may not always get things right the first time."
Knowledge is power
"The power of knowledge is not a dusty thing of the past but is still vibrantly alive and well today."
Hope for the helpers
"Thank you for you, and for us. I am glad we have each other and that we remain here for each other in even more powerful ways."
Somebody has to stand up
"Having an entire library team dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community is a symbol and a statement that we are not going anywhere."
Surround yourself with kindness
"Library folk are some of the most brilliant, genuine, and accepting people I’ve ever met."
The Library isn't a quiet place
"We are the place for you to build trust with others, and to feel welcome. as a newcomer, retiree, teen, or anyone in between."
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.
