I believe that every person has the potential to do great things. When we come together to encourage, teach and support each other, we have a better chance of fulfilling that potential. When we each embrace this belief of building each other up instead of tearing each other down our communities will be stronger, more creative, and more productive.

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Helping people grasp their potential is what attracts me to public libraries. Public libraries are in a unique position to give people in our community a helping hand toward their aspirations. Public libraries have a core of hospitality and helpfulness, and a backbone of advocacy for intellectual freedom and equality.

 

There is also a vibrant culture of sharing embedded in the public library. I often come across blogs and articles by librarians that share their creations and experiences trying new things that other librarians can use and learn from. It is inspiring and humbling to be part of a community that rather than being competitive, we are a community that encourages each other to become better and improve our services. Together we are stronger than apart.

 

This is why I take every opportunity to help those around me. I enjoy teaching what I know to my coworkers and learning from them in return. It is important for me to encourage people towards their dreams, and remind them that with hard work and perseverance they will improve their skills and push beyond what they feel capable of. I live that truth, by working to improve myself, and having confidence in the skills I develop. I have been blessed by people willing to encourage me and spend their time and energy teaching me. I see it as a tremendous honor to be able to leverage my time, knowledge and abilities for others.