Between the Lines: July Member Spotlight
Michael Contreras
Director of Library Services
Anthony Hunt Library at Howard College
What inspired you to become a librarian?
I have loved the library since I was a child. I remember always visiting my local public library during the summer and spending countless hours looking through books. However, I discovered my passion for libraries when I worked as a library assistant for Lamesa ISD. I reopened a closed library and reignited students’ passion for reading. It took a lot of work, but seeing their eyes light up when they discovered new reading material was so rewarding.
What is an innovative practice at your library/organization (current or former) would you like to share with others?
I collaborate with other departments around the college and our public library to create events for our students and the community. Our library just got a major update a few months ago, so doing this helps us spread awareness of what new resources our newly renovated library has to offer.
If you could have dinner with three authors (living or dead), who would they be and why?
Honestly, this is such a hard question to answer because I have many authors that I admire. My first choice would have to be Stephenie Meyer. I am a huge Twilight fan! I still have fond memories of waiting outside the theater in the blistering cold for the midnight movie premieres. My last two guests would have to be Stephen King and Edgar Allan Poe, simply because I am a huge horror fan. Getting to meet these great minds behind my favorite stories and books would be a dream come true!
What are you reading right now?
I am currently reading If He Had Been with Me by Laura Nowlin. I had a friend recommend this book to me and it is amazing!
What is your most memorable Texas Library Association Experience?
My most memorable TLA experience would have to be TLA Annual Conference 2023. This was my first year attending the annual conference and I had so much fun. I learned a lot and I was able to take the information from the panels I attended and utilize it in my own library.
Advice to new librarians?
Oh, stepping into the library world is such a serene journey. It is very scary in the beginning because of everything that is currently happening. Do not be afraid to immerse yourself in the environment and embrace the quiet hum of knowledge that is all around you. Remember that every person you come across has a story, which you get to be a part of. Keep that passion for books and helping others, and you’ll make a world of difference.
Share your hobbies, hidden talents, and anything people might not know about you.
I love to sing. I sing most of the day; I’m pretty sure my dogs are tired of hearing me (they’re the only audience I sing for). I enjoy reading, spending time with my dogs, hanging out with my family, watching documentaries, and gardening. I am also a huge history nerd. My brain is filled with historical facts.
Anything else you would like to share?
Libraries are the heart of the community and schools. They’re not just about books but about helping people explore knowledge and connecting them to resources they might not have access to otherwise. Libraries provide a sense of community and a space where people can connect over shared interests and learn from one another.
Please finish this sentence. “I am a TLA member because…”
I value the importance of libraries everywhere.