Hi my name is Rita Lovell and I live and work in beautiful Alpine County California.

My library career began in 2002, when the local school district had an opening for a Library/Media Coordinator. I (surprisingly) found myself applying - and being hired for - this position. I was even more surprised to find that I absolutely loved my job - so much that I was inspired to pursue a library degree. I soon became one of the first members of the "Nevada Cohort" of online students pursuing a Master's Degree with the University of North Texas. This was quite a challenge, seeing as how it had been 20 years since my last college course! However, the flexibility of this program allowed me to take one or 2 classes each semester and still work full time and be soccer mom, ski team mom - and (most times) a loving wife! I earned my MLS in 2008 and now work at the Alpine County Library & Archives in Markleeville as the Information Access Coordinator.

My responsibilities have grown in the past few years to include oversight and management of all library operations in Markleeville and Bear Valley. Since our library "system" is very small and under-staffed, I also carry out many tasks such as trouble shooting technology issues, grant writing, organizing events and programs, completing performance evaluations, collection development, driving the bookmobile, scheduling & training volunteers, assisting with Archives, collaborating with county agencies, preparing a disaster plan [thank you WESTPAS!], and serving as an advisory member to the Library Commission, the Friends of the Library, and the Historical Records Commission. I'm never bored!

I look forward to attending the Eureka! Institute for many reasons—the opportunity to learn from accomplished library professionals, to gain leadership skills and insights, to meet other librarians in the field, and to continue moving forward in my career. I'm also excited about implementing new ideas and skills in my home town library.

My current passion is playing disc golf at the new course in town (Turtle Rock Park Disc Golf Course) and at other courses in the area. Mainly this sport keeps me humble ... but I have a great time!