My name is Jesse Lanz and I am the Community Library Manager for the Diamond Bar Library, an exceptionally busy and dynamic branch of the Los Angeles County Public Library. In addition to leading a staff of twenty, I spend a few hours each day at the Information Desk keeping my reference and customer service skills finely honed. I go outside of the library to meet with members of the community and leaders of local organizations, represent the library at various community events, and work with our extraordinarily active and supportive Friends of the Library group. I've been with the County Library for a little over four years, and served as the Adult Services Librarian and then the Lead Adult Services Librarian at the West Covina Library before beginning my current position.

Though it's hard to believe now, I did not always consider making librarianship my career. My first jobs were as a shelving page at my hometown Hubbard Public Library and as a technical services assistant at the Oberlin College library. During summers as an undergraduate, I also returned to my hometown to act as an assistant for the library's very large and successful Summer Reading Program. After graduation, I spent some time working first as a waiter, then as a sales associate and stock supervisor with Gap, before finally realizing that libraries were really where I wanted to be. I completed my MLIS at Kent State University, and began my professional career as the Audiovisual Librarian for the Warren-Trumbull County Public Library before making the move to Southern California.

In many of my previous positions, I have assumed the responsibilities of coach/trainer/mentor informally, but it is only with my current position that I have embraced a leadership role more fully.  I look forward to the Eureka! experience as a way to gain the organizational and communication tools that will help me continue to take on even more leadership roles within my organization. I am also particularly eager to meet and collaborate with my fellow Eurekans and mentors.

When I'm not at work, I enjoy the outdoors, jogging, movies, and—of course!—reading. As a relative newcomer to Los Angeles and Southern California, I also keep busy sightseeing and generally having adventures as I explore this beautiful state.