Between the Lines: October Member Spotlight

LaTrisha Milton
Youth and Family Services Managers
Houston Public Library

1. What inspired you to become a librarian?

Librarianship found me. I started working for the library system in my hometown of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, when I was almost done with my undergraduate degree. I have always been a community girl, and after some time working in the library space, I realized it was perfect for me, as I have a natural love for community building and helping people find the resources they need or are interested in. I worked my way from a library page up through the rankings and eventually went back to school to get my master’s degree —the rest is history.

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

Right now, I am leaning more into the mental health and wellness space for families in our communities. My team and I work with professionals in the mental health and wellness space to make sure they are getting the resources and information needed to be able to handle tough times individually and as a family unit. For the past 2 years, we have hosted an event titled “Big Feelings” that explores different ways of handling tough times, and it has been well-received by the families that have participated.

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

Maya Angelou – I have always loved her poetry, and when I have seen her in videos, it appears as though her presence is so powerful.  I would enjoy asking her to share her wisdom so that I can soak it all up.

Brene Brown – I think she’s amazing, and I feel like I can be better and automatically vulnerable every time I hear her speak or read her books. I am sure dinner with her would be both entertaining and healing.

John C. Maxwell – I’ve studied his leadership books since my undergraduate days. I love to be poured into, and I would be curious to hear his leadership advice for me at this point in my journey, as well as a funny story or two about recent events and experiences in his life.

4. What are you reading right now?

The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze by Derrick Barnes.

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

My first time presenting at TLA was probably the most memorable. I wasn’t sure if anyone would come to my session, and it was a packed house! As a matter of fact, after that experience, I was later encouraged by one of the attendees to join the Black Caucus Roundtable.

6. Advice to new librarians?

Find your lane and work it. Once you find the place and the space that allows you to be the most creative and impactful, work it until you cannot work it anymore. This is where you will find the most joy and build a strong following.

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

I love travelling, visiting museums and discovering cool things in the places that I have lived. Something people may not know about me… I can sing. I just don’t do it often.

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

I think it’s important to be connected to other librarians who are actively doing the work to build their communities and to strengthen the library profession.