I have been the Library Services Manager for the Placer County Library since October 2010, coming to Placer after working at the Roseville Public Library for 26 years. I started my library career in high school as a shelver, and have held positions in Circulation and Technical Services divisions prior to becoming a branch manager. As the Library Services Manager, I oversee eight of Placer County Library’s eleven branches, the bookmobile, the Technical Services division, and the library’s website. As part of the library’s management team, I also assist with policy and procedure development, strategic planning, and have the opportunity to either participate in or lead numerous other projects. I love the variety of tasks that comes with this position.

I wanted to attend the Eureka! Leadership Institute to grow further as a library leader. With my MLIS degree completed in May 2010 and my two children now grown, I decided it was time I stretch myself, network more, and become involved in the profession I love so much. The Eureka! Leadership Institute seemed like the perfect opportunity to grow my confidence and to develop the traits that will make me a better library manager and professional. I hope to leave the institute with the knowledge, tools and ability to positively affect staff, colleagues, stakeholders, and others I come in contact with in the course of my work. For example, I plan to create new programs and services that are meaningful to my community; develop strong partnerships; help lead a strategic planning process; and participate in activities that benefit the library profession.

I appreciate the opportunity to take part in the Eureka! Leadership Institute.