Between the Lines: March Member Spotlight
Cynthia Y. Rodriguez
Director of Library Services for Laredo College
Harold R. Yeary Library and Senator Judith Zaffirini Library
What inspired you to become a librarian?
My inspiration to become a librarian came from helping others achieve their educational goals. While working on my undergraduate degree in criminal justice (yes, I wanted to become a police officer in my previous life), I became a student worker, yes, you guessed it, at the LIBRARY. Watching the impact librarians had on students was what truly inspired me. I wanted to be that change agent in higher education, where you can help every student succeed. Plus, I love to research.
What is an innovative practice at your library/organization (current or former) that you’d like to share with others?
Librarians at Laredo College are receiving training from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on intellectual property, copyright, patents, and trademarks. Our goal is to apply for designation for a Patent and Trademark Resource Center (PTRC) at Laredo College to educate and assist students in our community with information and resources so that they are well-informed on the process of protecting their property, patents, and inventions.
If you could have dinner with three authors (living or dead), whom would they be and why?
Oh gosh, this is a tough one; if I had to choose between three authors, my first one would be C.S. Lewis. My love for reading began with C.S. Lewis, which opened my mind to explore far-off places. Next would have to be the one and only Stephen King. That man sparks so much curiosity and it would be a delight to engage in a conversation with him. Lastly would have to be John. C. Maxwell, so that I can absorb his knowledge on leadership and people.
What are you reading right now?
I am rereading Leadershift: The 11 Essential Changes Every Leader Must Embrace by John Maxwell. It was gifted and signed with a message by our new college president, Dr. Minita Ramirez. It resonates with today’s leaders and how to embrace change during these interesting times. It is also a book from one of my favorite authors, so I keep all of Maxwell’s books close to me.
What is your most memorable Texas Library Association Experience?
I will never forget my first TLA annual conference, just about when the exhibit hall opened, the overpowering excitement of librarians as they opened the doors. I felt the love and passion that librarians have for their profession. I look forward to that same feeling every year, and each time feels exactly like that first time.