Each month, we feature a Core member for an interview profile called #IAmCore. This month, meet Melissa Brooks, Core Director-at-Large!
Describe yourself in three words.
Proactive, detail-oriented, people-centric.
Describe Core in three words.
Member-centric, growth, encouraging.
What do you value about Core?
I value the people of Core. As a group, we are stronger than individuals alone. Core fosters learning and growth through its members, and I appreciate that the most.
How long have you been a Core member?
I joined Core following the merger of LLAMA, LITA, and ALCTS. I was excited about the opportunities this new organization would create for me as a mid-career librarian.
What drew you to and continues to attract you to the Core Community?
The people of Core keep me attracted to Core as an organization. I have met so many wonderful people during my committee work and networking at Core Forum. I have made great friendships and have a support system for my work.
What are you working on now that you’re excited about?
I am working on promoting Transformative Agreements to my university community. With limited funding available for open access publishing, we are working on providing library cost-neutral publishing opportunities.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching/making?
Over the holiday break, I decided to make a sourdough starter and start baking. I am now moving from beginning baker who didn’t venture from the recipe to becoming confident in my baking abilities. I have made many mistakes with my bread and baked goods, but I have learned from each one. I call this a success.
What advice can you share with others for a fulfilling and beneficial Core experience?
I suggest to anyone who wants to become involved in Core, start small. Join a committee, attend a webinar, or take a class. From there think about what you enjoy most about librarianship, and I can guarantee Core has something for you!
Anything else you’d like to share?
Take a chance on joining Core. You won’t be disappointed!
We hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about the people of Core. If you would like to nominate someone or self-nominate, please fill out this Form.
