Stephanie Santiful
William R. and Norma B. Harvey Library, Hampton University
Hampton, VA
Cataloging Assistant
About Stephanie’s job:
I work in the Technical Services department where I perform original and copy cataloging for a wide range of materials. I also perform collection development duties for the audiovisual collection.
1)Â Â Â Â Â What are some things you like about your job or about working in libraries in general?
I love libraries. I love the feeling of being surrounded by information. It’s great knowing that people can come into a library and research so many different topics. I consider myself a lifetime student and learner, so libraries are just really exciting for me. I think they are one of the few places that can manage to be both exciting and calming at the same time.
2)     What’s your dream library job?
While I am not currently a student, I am actively seeking employment for a full-time librarian position. My dream library job would be a collection development/management librarian for either a public or academic library.
 3)     What’s a project or committee you’re working on right now that you’re excited about?
Right now I am working on the book sale committee at my job. I am extremely excited about the book sale. The committee is filled with wonderful people who want to make the book sale a total success. Gathering the books has been pretty strenuous on our bodies, but it will totally be worth it!
4)Â Â Â Â Â What got you interested in libraries?
I have loved libraries for as long as I can remember. In elementary school, our library was on the top floor of the school. There was a little pit in the middle of the library where we all sat, and the librarian would read to us. Library visits were my favorite part of school. I’ve always wanted to be an educator, and I enjoy researching. Deciding to become a librarian just sort of came naturally to me.
5)Â Â Â Â Â What is one of your favorite things about NMRT? Do you have any advice for other new librarians?
One of my favorite things about NMRT is that it can be a guide to the ALA as a whole. The ALA can be pretty overwhelming when you’re a newcomer, and the NMRT works to help out those who may need a hand with navigating. Another thing I like about NMRT is both Footnotes and Endnotes. What librarian doesn’t want to be published?
Right now I’m still a Cataloging Assistant, so I’m not sure if I’m qualified to give advice. I will say that it’s important to ask questions, and to always use the resources available to you. Network and communicate with your peers to help you with ideas and suggestions. The great thing about librarians is that most of them are always willing to lend a hand.
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