2009 Eureka! Leadership Institute: Petra Morris

My mother has a picture of me, as a toddler, delightfully dipping my tiny fingers into the running water fountain outside the Pasadena Public Library. Fast forward many years through attending school as well as working as a camp counselor and part time bookseller - I am now a librarian at the Hastings Branch of the Pasadena Public Library system. I spend my days fielding reference and circulation questions, selecting picture book and easy reader titles library-wide, participating on various committees, conducting outreaches, providing class visits, and hosting children's programs. And when I am not dressing up as Princess Leia for a Star Wars book party or in a sun hat and beach towel for a fun in the sun themed storytime, I enjoy yoga and volunteering at a community food pantry.

It is important to me that I continue to better myself, seeking opportunities that help my professional and personal development. I believe the Eureka! Leadership Institute is one such opportunity, providing resources to assist in growing and improving my leadership abilities as well as the opportunity to meet and build connections with fellow library employees throughout the state. I look forward to attending the Institute!