Published: April 10, 2025 by Gabe Farmer

While some iSchool students begin their journey shortly after completing their undergraduate degrees, many of us (myself included) have returned to the classroom after a decade or more, eager to forge a new path. Because online learning can be so isolating, a goal of mine is for this blog is to share stories of iSchool students from all backgrounds and walks of life, highlighting that no matter your circumstances, you’re not alone.

Mirna Gutierrez’s journey from a 15-year career at Target to becoming the sole library tech at a junior high school perfectly represents the new paths many of us are forging. In our conversation, she shared how a simple job tip evolved into a lifelong calling and how she’s balancing full-time work while pursuing her master’s degree in library science.

The Spark: A Tip That Changed Everything

Mirna’s story begins with a passion for helping people that she discovered while working in retail. “I loved working at Target, but what I realized I love the most was helping people and just chatting with them, coming up with new ideas,” Mirna explained. Although she thrived in Target’s environment, Mirna was intrigued by an opportunity to combine her love for conversation and community with her love for reading.

A friend who knew of Mirna’s love for reading and libraries sent her a tip about a library page job. “My friend said, ‘Hey, you should try this library page job,’ and I thought, why not give it a try?” Mirna recalled. That small suggestion opened the door to a whole new world where every interaction was an opportunity to share knowledge and make a difference.

From Library Page to Library Tech

Not long after applying for the position, Mirna began her role as a library page. The job involved checking books in, pulling hold requests and referring patrons to the reference desk. Although it was different from the busy retail environment, Mirna enjoyed her experience working in the library.

While she eventually left her page position, Mirna was hungry to find a more involved position at the library. She started applying for positions such as library assistant and library tech for her local school district. “A friend who worked there mentioned that they were opening up the library to outside applicants,” she said.

It wasn’t an immediate win. The application process took time. Public sector jobs are known for their slow hiring pace. “I submitted an application and waited forever. You have to check your email because they’ll send you an interview day or a testing day, and if you miss it, you miss your chance,” Mirna advised. Amidst testing days with 50 to 100 other candidates, she eventually found success. After a series of tests and interviews, she was placed on an eligibility list for six months and finally offered a position at a junior high school library. “I asked for a day to think about it, and I said yes,” she reflected. “I’m so glad I did, because I love it so much that here I am, getting my master’s and growing in this role.”

Building Community in the Junior High Library

Now, Mirna is the sole library tech in her district’s junior high school. Her role is multifaceted: she manages cataloging, oversees the check-in and check-out process, and handles programming tasks that bring the library to life. Unfortunately, when Mirna first stepped into her role, the school library already had a reputation as a strict and “shush-prone” place. “But then word spread that I’m approachable and helpful,” she said. Slowly, teachers began to rely on her expertise, and more classes began coming into the library.

One of her proudest achievements is witnessing how the library has become a hub of activity. “Now, teachers bring their classes in regularly, and the kids find their way to the library on their own. It’s amazing to see that shift.”

Mirna doesn’t just manage books; she creates engaging experiences for students. From ordering popular titles based on student surveys to introducing board games that encourage collaboration and critical thinking, she constantly adapts to meet the needs of her young patrons. Her proactive engagement ensures that the library remains relevant and exciting for students, which makes the library a desirable place for them to spend time!

Balancing Full-Time Work and Graduate School

The transition into the library world was just one challenge for Mirna; she also enrolled in the iSchool MLIS program. As we all know, balancing work, school and life is no small feat, and it puts every moment of time at a premium.

She emphasized the importance of time management, noting that creating a structured schedule is crucial to balancing her roles. While she still feels overwhelmed at times, Mirna says that now that she is in her fourth semester of the program, she has hit her stride with managing her time.

The juggling act extends to her personal life, too. With her full-time job and school responsibilities, finding time for her relationship can be challenging. “My boyfriend works nights, and I work during the day, so we don’t see each other much. It’s all about scheduling and making the most of the time we have,” she explained. Despite these challenges, Mirna is determined and optimistic about the future.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

Mirna’s excitement about her future in librarianship is contagious. “I’m aiming to be a Teen or Youth Services Librarian at a public library when I graduate,” she shared. Her immediate goal is to continue growing in her role in the junior high school library and focus on her aim of graduating in spring 2026. 

Her journey from retail to the library shows the transformative power of following one’s passion, no matter how unconventional the path may seem. Mirna’s experience is a reminder that even when the transition is challenging, every step taken is a step toward a fulfilling future.

Feeling inspired by Mirna’s journey? Drop a comment below or send me an email sharing your own story. We’d love to hear how you’re forging your path in librarianship!