I started my first job at the age of 11, working summers at my grandfather's hamburger stand on the beach in San Clemente, CA. It's still on my list as one of the best jobs I've ever had, and it's where I first discovered that I actually enjoy working with the public! I've had a number of customer or public service jobs since then, including retail and government organizations and a lengthy stint in a church office, but I believe that in libraries I've found my vocation.

I got my MLIS from San Jose State in 2003, and since 2004 have worked at the Newport Beach Public Library. At different times I've been a Reference, Young Adult, and Web Services Librarian, and have supervised several departments within the library, including Technical Processing and Circulation. I'm currently the Reference and Web Services Coordinator.

I'm interested in providing customers with the best experience at every point of contact with the library, including designing the website for better usability, improving wayfinding in brick and mortar locations, enhancing collections and developing creative and dynamic programs. I believe that the best PR person is a happy customer, and am always looking for new and creative ways to wow customers with exceptional programs and services. It's a really exciting (and yes, challenging) time to be a librarian, as there are so many opportunities for us to adapt existing service models and explore new ones to keep pace with technological and social change.

I was a fellow of the 2008/09 Eureka Leadership Institute, and am thrilled and humbled to have the opportunity to return as a mentor. I hope I can help this year's participants gain as much from the Institute as I did.

Phone: 949-717-3823
Email: ghansen@newportbeachca.gov
Blog: http://wrongagain.wordpress.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/genesishansen
Twitter: www.twitter.com/gdhansen