Marla is the Assistant Branch Manager at Alafaya Branch Orange County Library System in Orlando, FL. She has been a member of ACL for 10 years.
Librarian Career
My professional career began…at Johnson University Florida (formerly Florida Christian College) in 2010, where I worked as full-time support staff while completing my bachelor’s degree. Soon after joining the library, I realized that this was the career path I wanted to pursue for the long term. I continued my education and earned a Master’s in Information, graduating in 2016. During this time, Linda Stark, the librarian at the time, kindly supported me as I completed my degree, and we started planning for a smooth succession.
Between the Pages: Getting to Know Our Member of the Month
Describe yourself using a book title: Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery. It’s main character, Anne, is a imaginative, inquisitive, and stubborn redhead. Anne’s curiosity, intelligence, and fiery red hair make her stand out as she navigates the challenges of growing up and finding her place in the world. My curiosity still gets me into trouble at times, and I do “fit the bill” of a typical redhead with a stubbornness and temper that God helps me control. I’d take college courses all my life if the cost was free simply because I love the structure of a class and a desire to learn.
What’s the best thing about being a librarian? Serving people. There’s nothing more satisfying than helping others and having an ample amount of books by your side while doing so.
What are you currently reading? Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray (audiobook), The Little Liar by Mitch Albom (almost done), and The Great Divide by Cristina Henriquez (just started).
How do you as a librarian contribute to your campus or community? I hope that my knowledge, skills, and dedication to service contribute to the intellectual, educational, and cultural life of my community, as I help to create a safe environment where learning is encouraged.
Do you have any specific interests in the library world? I have a strong interest in areas like information architecture and promoting information literacy.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of work? Reading, working on DIY projects at home, going to Disney World, and I just took up crocheting.
ACL Involvement
How were you introduced to ACL? I was hired in 2010 at Florida Christian College by Linda Stark. She served as a wonderful mentor and friend for years to follow. She immediately introduced me to ACL and as soon as I enrolled in Library school, she encouraged me to join ACL and attend the annual conference.
Describe ACL in three words: Community, Mentors, Support
What do you value about ACL? I especially value the staff and board members of ACL who keeps us focused on the mission of ACL. I appreciate and value the opportunities ACL offers for mentoring, professional development, and spiritual encouragement. Also, the ACL conference is so refreshing and fills my cup each summer.
How are you or have you been involved in ACL? I am currently the Coordinator for the Mentoring Program. I have also served as a CPI Indexer, Poster presenter, and workshop presenter.