Q: What started your interest in books?

A: My love for books was inspired by my mom. She always made time to read to me when I was a young child and never hesitated to take me to the library whenever I was ready for a new book. Growing up, we didn’t have a lot of money, so books became my window to the world, allowing me to explore, learn, and dream beyond my surroundings.

Q: Why did you start book club?

A: I started the book club because, for some reason, reading often gets overlooked or even dismissed. I wanted to create a space at Winslow where students could get together without judgment, share their love for reading, and discuss books they’re genuinely interested in. The goal is to give them the freedom to choose the books and lead the conversations, empowering them to shape the experience themselves.

Q: What are some of your favorite books?

A: When I was really young, I loved the Ramona series by Beverly Cleary.  Books I’ve really enjoyed lately include The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo, Secret Daughter by Somaya Shilpi Gowda, Born a Crime by Trevor Noah, The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah, and The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera, and The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins.  

Q: What is one goal you have for your book club?

A: One goal I have for my book club is to foster a sense of community and open dialogue around books. I want to create a space where members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, opinions, and insights without judgment. I also hope to inspire a deeper love for reading by exploring a diverse range of genres and authors, allowing everyone to discover new perspectives and ideas.

Q: Why did you decide to become a librarian?

A: My path to becoming a librarian wasn’t traditional. After high school, I didn’t immediately go on to finish college within four years—I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do at the time. At 21, I stumbled upon a secretarial role in a high school library, and that’s where everything changed. The librarian who hired me became a huge inspiration. Her passion for providing access to reliable information, teaching research skills, and fostering a love for reading had a profound impact on me. Encouraged by her example, I completed my undergraduate degree and went on to earn my master’s degree with the goal of running a high school library. Librarians play a vital role in supporting lifelong learning, curating resources, and guiding students toward critical thinking and discovery. It’s this aspect of the job that I truly love—helping students navigate the world of information and inspiring them to explore and think critically. Now, I’m in my fourth school year at Winslow, and I couldn’t be happier with where this journey has led.

Q: What are some of your hobbies aside from reading?

A: I absolutely love to travel—it’s probably my favorite thing to do. Two of my most memorable trips were to Ireland and Maui. I also enjoy camping, and my husband and I have a small travel trailer that we take out frequently during the summer months.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: I always find questions like this a bit challenging to answer. Ultimately, I just hope to be healthy enough to continue working in public education, travel, and spend quality time with the people I love most.

Q: What motivates you to work hard?

A: I’m motivated by the desire to make a positive impact, whether it’s helping students discover a love for reading, supporting their learning, or creating a space where they feel safe, welcomed and inspired. The connections I make with others and the knowledge that I’m contributing to their growth and success is what drives me to work hard every day.

Q: Do you have any New Year resolutions?

A: Sounds a little basic, but I want to be a better listener.  I believe being a better listener will help me build stronger connections with the people around me whether they are family, friends, coworkers, or students.

Q: What do you consider to be your spirit animal?

A: If I had to pick one, I think I would go with the wolf.  They symbolize many things including loyalty, intelligence, strength and a strong sense of community.