Audrey has studied in a variety of fields, achieving degrees or certifications in several: General Studies & Education, Pharmacy Technology, Information Systems Technology & Webpage Design, Creative Writing, Google IT Support Professional, Library Science, and (wait for it) DONA birth doula. She’s worked at three of Botetourt County Libraries’ four branches, and that’s not counting the Bookmobile.
All that, and she’s one of Botetourt County Libraries’ youngest staff members.
“In high school, I wanted to be a geneticist,” Audrey said, although that was after previous career interests in figure skating and zoology. But her work in the public library changed her mind. “I felt that the job was such a good fit for me that I decided to make a career of it. Working as a library assistant led me to choose Library Science as my college major, and I hope to continue to further my education in Library Science.”
Audrey out-reads many librarians, making her a go-to for book recommendations. “Putting the right book in the hands of the right person is a really rewarding feeling,” she noted. She’s adept at finding something for everyone, from children to seniors. In the coming year, Audrey will use her skill set to pilot a staff specialist role in reader’s advisory (making knowledgeable reading recommendations), serving as a systemwide resource for the hardest “I need a book” questions and providing resources and training for other staff.
Her ability to identify what will appeal to readers sparked a new opportunity for her: collection development. In her new role at the Eagle Rock branch, Audrey recommends new titles to add to the collection. “Audrey has a great sense of what people want, as well as the professional training to identify quality materials,” said Jaime Duval, Eagle Rock Branch Manager. “I’m excited to see how her expertise will benefit the Eagle Rock community and beyond.”
Even more than the books, Audrey enjoys working with people. “I love the feeling of community we have here in Botetourt. Co-workers and patrons feel like family,” she observed. She takes her passion for personal connections on the road in Outreach Services, confessing that “one of my absolute favorite things about my work is delivering items to people who are not able to travel to one of our library branches. I enjoy visiting with these people, and books and movies from the library provide an enjoyable way to pass the time for those who are unable to get out and about.”
Audrey strives to live out her favorite movie quote: “I don’t want to be a product of my environment. I want my environment to be a product of me” (Jack Nicolson as Frank Costello in The Departed). We’re glad that Audrey helps shape our library environment for amazing experiences. Drop by the Eagle Rock Library to meet her!
Botetourt County Public Libraries
