In 2021 I moved to a community with a 150-year-old Carnegie library within walking distance to my house and decided that was where I needed to work. The public library job led to an elementary school library job, and after 25 years of teaching preschool, I am beginning my second career as an elementary school librarian. 

My goal has been to make my sweet little 1 room library into an inclusive and welcoming space for the students from preschool to 6th grade. My school is a Title 1 school with 4 special education classes and I want to provide access to all the classes and students, catering to their specific needs and wants. I’ve created inclusive signage, a makerspace, school wide reading events, a book club and a safe space for students during lunch recess. My job is my joy, and I’m so grateful for all the students, for all the books and for all the fun!

I have spent the bulk of my career putting food on the table through my writing, working remotely with clients ranging from Bell Labs to genetic testing companies to patient-centered healthcare organizations. I spent some time writing books, and published a book about how caregivers can use public art to foster a child's curiosity in the world around them and turn them into lifelong learners.

During the pandemic, I realized I needed a closer connection to my community, so I began volunteering at my local public middle school library, ultimately transitioning into a permanent role there as a library assistant.

Much to my surprise, I love library work. In fall of 2022, I enrolled in San José State University’s MLIS program. My plan is to use my training to support people interested in obtaining a free or low-cost education for themselves or their children.