Between the Lines: January Member Spotlight

Kaitlyn Carpenter

Public Services Librarian
University of St. Thomas – Houston

1. What inspired you to become a librarian?

I came to librarianship in a rather roundabout way. During my first two years teaching high school English, the school librarian suggested I consider pursuing a master’s degree in library science. At first, I dismissed the idea. Growing up, the libraries I encountered were not particularly welcoming, so I didn’t associate the profession with openness or community. Yet, as my second year of teaching came to a close, the thought lingered. I reflected on what I loved most about teaching—talking with students about books, guiding them through research, and engaging in meaningful conversations. I realized librarianship would allow me to do all of that, but with a broader impact across the entire school rather than just my 100–150 students each year. That summer I enrolled in graduate school, and I have never looked back. Becoming a librarian has truly been the best professional decision I have ever made.

2. What is an innovative practice at your library/organization (current or former) that you would like to share with others?

I recently transitioned from school librarianship to academic librarianship, and one practice I’ve carried with me is proactive collaboration. In my current role, which emphasizes reference, instruction, and outreach, I believe our reference outreach program is poised to transform how we support students and faculty. We began by soliciting syllabi from professors and then creating tailored LibGuides, lessons, and collaborative opportunities to meet students at their point of need. This has led to course-specific guides, interactive tutorials for research skills tied directly to assignments, and partnerships with our LMS team to embed “learning objects” into online courses. These objects include tutorials, LibChat widgets for real-time help, and links to relevant guides. By embedding support directly into the learning environment, we ensure students encounter library resources exactly when they need them.

3. If you could have dinner with three authors (living or dead), who would they be and why?

I would choose Tiffany Jackson, E. Lockhart, and Oscar Wilde. My reasoning is simple: I love their works and believe the conversation would be fascinating. Each of these authors has crossed genres and crafted stories full of unexpected twists. Wilde’s wit, Lockhart’s layered narratives, and Jackson’s sharp social commentary would make for an unforgettable evening of dialogue.

4. What are you reading right now?

Lately, audiobooks have become my constant companions, especially since my commute has grown longer. They make the drive enjoyable and productive. I’ve been diving into romance titles such as Julia Song Is Undateable by Susan Lee and We Met Like This by Kasie West. I balance those with thrillers like Tiffany Jackson’s The Scammer. I’m also eagerly waiting for my hold on Family of Liars by E. Lockhart, so I can catch up before reading her newest release, We Fell Apart.

5. What is your most memorable Texas Library Association Experience?

I anticipate that my participation in the TALL Texans Leadership Institute in November 2025 will be unforgettable. Even before attending, meeting fellow participants has shown me how valuable the experience will be. If that doesn’t count yet, then my most memorable moment so far was my first Officer Governance Training in 2022. As a new councilor for the New Members Round Table, I gained a deeper understanding of how TLA operates and how volunteers shape the profession across Texas. The training allowed me to network and build connections that might have taken years to develop otherwise. I encourage anyone considering TLA service to attend OGT—it’s a powerful way to connect across library types and regions.

6. Advice to new librarians?

Take every opportunity to connect with colleagues—whether at TLA conferences, district meetings, or within your community. Librarianship can sometimes feel isolating, but building relationships, finding mentors, and cultivating friendships will remind you of the strength and interconnectedness of our profession.

7. Share your hobbies, hidden talents, or anything people might not know about you.

I have two unique hobbies that I truly enjoy: bonsai (Japanese art of small trees) and kuk sool (Korean martial arts). My husband and I both serve on the Houston Bonsai Society board, a passion passed down from my grandparents. More recently, after completing my second master’s degree in 2025, I began studying kuk sool at a local gym. I am currently an orange belt and enjoy the discipline and challenge it provides.

8. Please finish this sentence. “I am a TLA member because…”

I am a TLA member because I believe connections strengthen us as professionals and as advocates for libraries.