Community Profiles

“Part of the benefit of education is to learn new things, even if you don’t  think you need them for your future career. There are so many options now…and a lot you can do.”

Lisa Rosenblum
Chief Librarian, Brooklyn Public Libraries
Brooklyn, New York
iSchool Distinguished Alumna (MLIS, 1994)

“Applying for a grant is more than just submitting applications to whatever is out there. Locating a grant that truly fits the library requires a thorough understanding of the requirements of the grant, and the needs and mission of the library [and] community.”

Yu Ting Lin
Los Angeles, California
iSchool Alumna (MLIS, 2015)

“Because of the grant, [the library was] able to give their diverse community a spectacular program that connected them to local history, each other, and the joy of reading.”

Stefa Witt
Los Angeles, California
MLIS Student, Expected Graduation Fall 2016

“All of these experiences added up to who I am today, and what kind of work I will be able to do and contribute to the library profession. They made me who I am.”

Essraa Nawar
Coordinator of Development and Co-Chair of Arts and Exhibits
Chapman College Library, Orange, California
MLIS Student, Expected Graduation Fall 2017

“I wasn’t sure I saw myself as a librarian. But having gone through [the MLIS program], I now understand the professionalism associated with this role. Now I have a larger view, and the values behind this role and why we do what we do.”

Sharon Tani
Pasadena, California
iSchool Alumna (MLIS, 2011)

“My goal is to use my skills and knowledge to build on my past successes and experiences, and to play a vital role in supporting and affecting positive change in my communities—locally and globally.”

Simon Lum
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
MLIS Student, Expected Graduation Spring 2016

“I should call it community-engaged grant writing. That’s the critical difference between how I teach grant writing and how others do it. I really do want to have a positive impact on a whole community.”

Patty Wong
iSchool Lecturer
County Librarian and Chief Archivist for Yolo County, California

“I feel like I am officially a teacher-librarian… Having the Post-Master’s Certificate validates and qualifies me for my position.” 
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Patty Mapes
Atlanta, Georgia
iSchool Alumna (Post-Master’s Certificate, 2015)

“I just like information… Ever since I started reading, I wanted to know, and to share information. I enjoy helping other people find the information that they need.”
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Emily Agunod
Chesterfield, Virginia
MLIS Student, Expected Graduation December 2015

“I wanted to make a difference and be of service. I wanted to promote things I valued and cared about, such as stories, the arts, reading and lifelong learning.”

Tom Schween
Walnut Creek, California
MLIS Student, Expected Graduation Spring 2017