I am ALA

My colleague, Kristine, and I received Carnegie Whitney Grants from ALA to create a database that helps users find books and other materials about diverse families (Same-Sex, Single Parent, Adoptive, Senior Parents, Multiracial, etc.). Families are so diverse now and members of diverse families, especially children and teens, need to see themselves. But, this resource is for everyone. We all have to open our eyes to the fact that the family make-up has been and is a changing entity, just like the make-up of America in general.

I am very active with YALSA. I finished my round on the Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults committee. It was one of the best committees I've been on. Everything was just smooth running. Favorite thing about ALA? For the most part, if there is something you don't know or want to know better, it's easy to reach out and ask for help or learn something new. There are just SO many networking opportunities.

I think you make change happen by first envisioning something. Once you think about it happening, you become excited and the steps fall into place. I try not to let anyone tell me no. A mentor of mine once said, "You don't go to your boss with a problem, you go to your boss with a solution." I take that concept into every aspect of my life, work or personal. So, if I want to see something happen, I have to have the vision for it and the steps to make it happen. Then I put the passion behind it and go!

I am reading Dhonielle Clayton’s The Belles, and watching this funny Canadian sitcom called Kim’s Convenience.