A YouTube channel created by an engineer with an artistic soul is showcasing the impact of libraries with support from the San José State University School of Information. Cathy Yang’s Library Hunter videos blend her identity as a lifelong learner with libraries as a primary empowerment source.

After earning a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from UCLA, Yang pursued a career as a circuit designer. Despite her demanding profession, she has visited more than 100 libraries across the United States. “Libraries have always felt like my second home—a peaceful space where ideas flow freely, distractions fade away, and inspiration strikes,” she enthused. Over time, she realized that her passion for libraries was not just personal but something worth sharing.

Recognizing their transformative power, Yang launched Library Hunter to highlight the importance of libraries. “With technology evolving every day, our free time is often consumed by bite-sized content on platforms like TikTok,” she explained. “There is little patience for sitting with a book, reflecting in silence, or appreciating the wealth of free resources libraries offer.” Yang hopes to inspire viewers to rediscover the joy of reading and learning within library spaces.

Yang created her YouTube channel to bridge that gap, telling the stories of libraries and showcasing their impact. “I want to share this incredible world with those who may not have considered it before,” she said.

Her connection with San José State University’s School of Information began at the 2024 American Library Association conference in San Diego. “I attended a seminar about libraries in Ukraine, which featured inspiring stories of resilience and adaptability,” she recalled. The session, led by SJSU iSchool faculty members Dr. Chow and Dr. Gosart, motivated her to reach out for an interview, marking the start of a meaningful collaboration.

Dr. Chow later offered Yang a sponsorship opportunity on behalf of SJSU iSchool to support her advocacy efforts. “This partnership allowed me to create videos covering my experiences at ALA and California Library Association conferences, as well as discussions on the Freedom to Read movement across various libraries,” she said.

Through this collaboration, Yang has amplified the voices of librarians and library supporters. “I am incredibly grateful for their belief in my mission,” she shared. She curated a dedicated playlist on her Library Hunter YouTube channel to showcase her work with SJSU iSchool and highlight its initiatives.

Her videos feature a wide range of libraries, from grand architectural landmarks to small community spaces. “Each library has a unique story to tell. My goal is to encourage others to explore these spaces and appreciate their value,” she said.

The name Library Hunter reflects Yang’s mission. “Throughout history, people have searched for knowledge, much like seeking a rare flower in a vast desert,” she described. In today’s information-saturated world, searching for credible knowledge is more important than ever.

“Being a library hunter isn’t just about collecting information—it’s about exploring the world with curiosity and a critical mindset,” she said. She compares this pursuit to a skilled hunter reading signs in nature, emphasizing the importance of discernment in navigating information landscapes.

Yang’s dedication to libraries, fueled by her engineering background and creative spirit, ensures that these vital spaces remain essential hubs for learning, creativity, and community engagement.