Member Spotlight: Alejandra Q. Reyes

Name: Alejandra Q Reyes

Title: Probation Outreach Librarian

Library: LA County Library

What is your primary library service role?

As a Probation Outreach Librarian, my primary role is to work with Probation-involved and At-Promise Teens by taking library programming to Juvenile Detention Reporting Centers. Along with that, I bring library programming to different libraries in my assigned Region. Ultimately, my job is to be a gateway to our resources. 

How does your work align with service to Latinos and Spanish-speaking communities?

I say I have the best of both worlds: I am building relationships and planting library seeds with the kids in the Juvenile Detention Reporting Centers but I also am giving back to my community by bringing them cultural programs that align with the community. Being bilingual and being part of the community has brought many connections through the way that I deliver my programs and by offering a welcoming space with library users who can identify themselves with me.

What is your favorite aspect about your work?

My favorite aspect of my work is the diversity of programming and roles that I play throughout the months. I can go from having an Adult 101 lesson with the teens at the Juvenile Day Reporting Centers but then have an Alma Thomas Inspired Art Program in the afternoon. But I can also be assisting in systemwide projects or outreach. The opportunities to learn and grow plus the support of my colleagues make my time and aspirations for my role grow. 

What advice do you have for other librarians and present/future MLIS students?

Talk to people! REFORMA LA has been a big part of my professional growth but most of it would not have been if I did not talk to other members. Ask a lot of questions! And take people seriously when they offer their help. 

What programs have you been in charge of or involved with?

In my short months, I have proposed and facilitated several cultural programming that reflects the communities that we serve such as Dia de los Muertos, Native American Month, and recently an Alma Thomas program. The programs have been used by my colleagues and I as a team throughout the LA County regions. 

What personal interests or hobbies do you have that you would like to share?

One of my hobbies is making any excuse to make a charcuterie board or trying a new restaurant with close friends. I also love spending time with my boys either at other libraries with cool events or just being on the sidelines at my son's mariachi group performances or at my other son's sports activities.

REFORMA Los Angeles 2024-2025 Board Nominations

Help us bring another exciting and effective year to REFORMA Los Angeles Chapter by nominating yourself or others to be on the Chapter Board. Current MLIS students are eligible for nomination and all members are encouraged to self nominate!

The commitment for each position (unless otherwise noted) is one year from July 2024 to June 2025 and a minimum 3 hours/month for the Executive Board and General Membership meetings. You may choose to

volunteer for additional committee work at your discretion and capacity.

We are looking for nominations for the following positions:

Vice-President/President-Elect

The VP/PE shall assist the President in the performance of their duties and shall take over all such duties in the absence of the President.

Committees chaired by this position: Mentorship Program Committee

Secretary

The Secretary shall be in charge of the recording and the preservation of all records, publications and history regarding the functions and activities of the Chapter. They will also be in charge of all official correspondence as assigned by the President.

Treasurer

The Treasurer shall be in charge of handling all financial matters of organization. They shall keep records regarding all income and disbursements, shall make all necessary reports to the IRS, and shall present a Treasurer’s Report at each General Meeting. The signature of the President or the Treasurer will be necessary for all disbursements. All records of this office shall be passed on to the succeeding officer elected to this position should the existing Treasure not continue in this position.

Public Information Officer*

PIO will work with one of the current PIOs and be in charge of social media and marketing Chapter projects and efforts. They shall develop, create and maintain social media content, blog posts, press releases, monthly newsletters, and member spotlight write-ups. The PIOs work with the Web person to coordinate communication via the Chapter website.

Committees co-chaired by this position: Public Relations and Marketing Committee

* The commitment for this position is two years (July 2024 to June 2026), where you shadow and work with the existing PIO in Year 1, then lead and train a new PIO in Year 2.

Nominate yourself or a colleague by Friday, May 10: https://forms.gle/ZWmsn6G5oAa7Gr5D9

Got questions? Email us at reformala@gmail.com

Member Spotlight: Sandra Gonzalez

Sandra Gonzalez

Teen and Adult Services Librarian

LA County Library

How does your work align with service to Latinos and Spanish-speaking communities?

I work in a predominantly Hispanic/Latino Spanish-speaking community. We try to offer programs such as computer basics in Spanish to provide our customers with the tools they need to navigate the growing technological trends. We also have an adult conversation club that gives English as a second language learners an opportunity to practice their English skills. We also try to offer bilingual Spanish/English leisure activities such as crochet club and other art programs.

What is your favorite aspect about your work?

My favorite aspect about my work is having the autonomy to create programs specifically for my community. I do this by actively engaging with customers, greeting them by name and learning about them. I find out what interests them and try to work around that to develop my programs. I also love the connections I make with my customers.

“[Our patrons] appreciate getting greeted by name and a friendly, familiar face, which makes people feel welcomed and more comfortable asking for assistance.”

What advice do you have for other librarians and present/future MLIS students?

My advice is to think early about the path of librarianship you would like to pursue and whether you are willing to relocate. Knowing where you want to go will give you time to prepare, not only in your studies but also in the job market. It can get competitive, particularly if you are not willing to move away from home.

“When it comes to seeking employment, my best advice is to practice your interviewing skills.”

What programs have you been in charge of or involved with?

I am currently involved in developing a teen program in a box (PIAB) for March’s Teen Create Month for LA County Library

What personal interests or hobbies do you have that you would like to share?

Aside from reading, I love paper crafts, so card making, scrapbooking, and making library displays are my jam. I also love taking walks and soaking up the sun.

Mentorship Spotlight: Cristina Banuelos and Ziba Pérez

Click the image above to watch Cristina’s and Ziba’s interviews on YouTube!

Mentee: Cristina Banuelos, Library Student, University of Southern California

Mentor: Ziba Pérez, Librarian, Palisades Library (Los Angeles Public Library)

Mentee Cristina Banuelos: What was your primary reason for joining the Mentorship Program?

My primary motivation for enrolling in the Mentorship Program stems from my initial lack of experience in the field when I began studying management in library and information science. I recognized the need to embark on a learning journey to become a librarian.

Mentor Ziba Pérez: What was your primary reason for joining the Mentorship Program?

To give back to the community I started in ten years ago.

Here I am DJing the 2013 REFORMA LA Fundraiser!

Mentee Cristina Banuelos: How have your goals evolved as a result of your mentorship experience?

The truth is, I couldn't have imagined a more valuable learning experience than the one I gained with Ziba. Without any exaggeration, Ziba has been instrumental in guiding me along the path to becoming a librarian and has generously shared all of her knowledge and experience with me.

“I wish I had someone there mock interviewing me and confirming my answers before I gave them officially.”

— Ziba

Mentor Ziba Pérez: In what ways has being a mentor enriched your understanding of the needs and aspirations of emerging librarians?

I remember when I was new to interviewing for library positions, I was guessing at what to say and that worked but I wish I had someone there mock interviewing me and confirming my answers before I gave them officially. Now I’m happy to help Cristina in that way!

Mentee Cristina Banuelos: Could you share a specific example of how your mentor has helped you navigate challenges or make significant progress in your career?

Ziba consistently emphasizes the significance of engaging in unique activities and attending events. She assists me in preparing with mock interviews, providing invaluable guidance on the process. Ziba extends invitations for me to partake in workshops and generously shares her own work with me. Furthermore, Ziba always encourages my participation in events she believes will enhance my experiential learning.

Mentor Ziba Pérez: How did you work with your mentee to achieve their specific goals or overcome a challenge they faced during the program?

I had Cristina shadow me at the library in person and then also we did mock interviews and I gave a lot of advice on how I thought was best to enter librarianship while they were in library school and applying to library positions. I have had a lot of first hand experience since I received my degree in 2012—I've had over a decade since graduation to give back what I’ve learned, so I think it really helped.

“Thanks to my mentor, I genuinely sense my inclusion within the broader librarian community.”

— Cristina

Mentee Cristina Banuelos: How has your mentorship experience impacted your relationship with Reforma and the library field in general?

Thanks to my mentor, I genuinely sense my inclusion within the broader librarian community, particularly among Latinos within Reforma. Ziba has brought me significantly closer to the intricacies of the profession, instilling in me a greater sense of confidence and experience.

Mentor Ziba Pérez: How do you see the mentorship program contributing to the broader goals of Reforma and the library profession in general?

The goals of Reforma are to serve the Spanish speaking community to the best of our ability and part of that is recruitment and training of new librarians so getting students involved as mentees is fulfilling our mission 100%!

“I deeply admire [Ziba’s] consistent engagement and active participation in various library associations and attendance at numerous events.”

— Cristina

Mentee Cristina Banuelos: What lessons have you learned from your mentor that you believe will be valuable in that role?

One aspect of Ziba that I deeply admire, and which I consider highly significant, is her consistent engagement and active participation in various library associations and attendance at numerous events.

“[You need to] develop bilingual programming, marketing, collections and do outreach to ... get your library patrons interested in using the collections / attending the programming!”

— Ziba

Mentor Ziba Pérez: What advice or guidance do you offer to other library professionals, particularly those interested in serving Spanish-speaking communities, based on your experience as a mentor?

Develop bilingual programming, marketing, collections and do outreach to your library’s Spanish-speaking community to get your library patrons interested in using the collections/attending the programming!

Mentee Cristina Banuelos: What ideas or vision do you have for future editions of the mentorship program?

Reforma does an amazing job.

Member Spotlight: Alfonso Huerta

Alfonso Huerta

Director, Access & Outreach

ArtCenter College of Design Library

What is your primary library service role?

I am responsible for the access services and outreach initiatives across the two campuses at ArtCenter College of Design.

How does your work align with service to Latine and Spanish-speaking communities?

We have a small community of Latine or Spanish speaking students at ArtCenter College of Design. My hope is that I am able to provide the best possible service to all students regardless of their ethnicity and gender. In the case of Latine or Spanish speaking students, it might include finding research materials in Spanish if that is what is easiest for them or highlighting Latin American artists and designers. 

What is your favorite aspect about your work?

My favorite aspect of my work is the daily interactions I get to have with the people I serve and my colleagues. These interactions give me the opportunity to learn something new everyday. In return, I hope that I am able to provide them with some knowledge that helps inform their work. I have had the opportunity to be a part of a few of the students’ projects and witness their steps along the way–from their serendipitous discoveries, to in-depth research, prototypes/ideas, and the final projects.

What advice do you have for other librarians and present/future MLIS students?

While I have only been a librarian for the last eight months, my advice would be to take advantage of going to national and local conferences, getting involved in ALA, REFORMA, or other local professional organizations. Volunteer for committees, join listservs, and attend free webinars whenever possible. When I was a Library Assistant, I took every advantage I could to get involved so that I could gain a better understanding of the profession.

What programs have you been in charge of or involved with?

Outreach for the library is a main area of my responsibilities; I am working on establishing regular programs in partnership with other departments at the college. In February and March, we highlighted BIPOC artists and designers in partnership with five other departments at the college, including the DEI division. Additionally, I worked with the graduate writing center to establish a Graduate Writing Thesis Clinic each term. This term, I am establishing bi-weekly library pop-ups at one of the campuses where we don’t have a permanent library space. The campuses are far apart, so bringing a pop-up library directly to the students will enhance their access to library services.

What personal interests or hobbies do you have that you would like to share?

My personal interests and hobbies have always centered around my family, art, and books. I love spending every single moment I have with my wife, four year old son, and our two corgis (Tyrion and Gimli). They are at the core of my happiness. 

From an early age, I knew that I wanted to be involved with art. I originally studied studio art and briefly attended the Art Academy in San Francisco. After I moved back home to L.A., I received my Undergraduate degree in art history from California State University, Los Angeles. While I switched majors to art history, I have continued to create art via photography, drawing, and painting. I have always loved spending time in art museums; my favorite (so far) is the Musee d’Orsay in Paris. I fell in love with reading and books post high school when I had the opportunity to choose what I read, rather than assigned reading. My love of books increased when I started working in bookstores. I worked for Borders Books & Music for seven years, and then at Vroman’s Bookstore (oldest book store west of the Mississippi) for another seven years, prior to working at ArtCenter Library. Working at ArtCenter Library has given me the opportunity to continue working with art and books. 
What innovations would you like to see happen in services to Latinx students and/or in academic libraries?

There is a perception that academic libraries are stuck in their ways and slow to adapt. In contrast, public libraries are perceived as innovative and adaptable. I would love to see academic libraries break that perception and show how innovative we truly are. ArtCenter as a college is already an innovative and visually creative environment, but I would love to see that innovation brought to libraries and combined with library services and values. We can see a spark of that innovation in small ways, such as with our Zine collection where we feature original art and works made by professionals and students, but we also include zines made by students during our workshops at the library. I’d love to see us using artificial intelligence in some form in library services. It’s such new technology that’s rapidly developing. I’d like to see academic libraries adapt and utilize that technology for students to enhance their research, or libraries to enhance our reference services.

Member Spotlight: 2023 MLIS Graduates

This month we are celebrating the professional accomplishments of our December '22 / May '23 graduating members! Graduating is a huge achievement and their work deserves to be recognized. We are so proud of them and honored to call them our members. 

Here is their advice to current and prospective MLIS students AND what they are looking forward to as librarians:

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Ana’s Advice

This is your moment to shine bright as a star. Do not let obstacles prevent you from accomplishing your ultimate goal; remember, this is your time to shine! 

Ana is looking forward to…

…helping my local community members with digital literacy questions and concerns. Advocating for the community and building partnerships with small businesses that can bring awareness of the library's mission. By participating in this role, I will be able to serve my community in the best way possible. 

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Sheridan’s Advice

If you don't currently work in a library, see if you can find a position (even a volunteer one) so that you can get a feel for what it's like before you graduate. In this field, experience is extremely important and will help you to break into the field once you finish the MSLIS.

Sheridan is looking forward to…

…working more closely with collections. Ordering books, labeling, jacketing, reading, and weeding. It's been a long time since I've gotten to work directly with books, and I can't wait!  

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Erin’s Advice

Get involved with student groups at your school and professional associations in your area! These are great ways to get exposure to peers and learn firsthand what is happening in Library Land.

Erin is looking forward to…

…finding my niche as a librarian! I have so many interests when it comes to librarianship, so I am excited to see how I bridge them together to better serve my community.

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All photos supplied by respective members.

REFORMA Los Angeles Call for Nominations

Do you know a Reformista that shows leadership, has passion for supporting their community, or is looking to get more involved? Nominate them (or yourself!) for the 2023/2024 REFORMA Los Angeles Executive Board.

Our chapter is now accepting nominations for our next Executive Board! We are looking for current members (including MLIS students) with a drive to apply their skills, contribute to our growth, and gain invaluable professional experience.

Nominations are currently being accepted for the following positions:

• Vice President/President Elect

• Secretary

• Treasurer

• Public Information Officer (2 open positions)

Please click here to nominate yourself or a colleague for any of our five open positions. Nominations are due by May 10, 2023.

Member Spotlight: Patricia Valdovinos

Patricia Valdovinos

Adult Librarian III

Multilingual Collections, Los Angeles Public Library

What is your primary library service role? 

I help with the selection and purchasing of Spanish material for the Los Angeles Public Library, with the focus on children’s material. I provide in-house translations for the Library and promote our Library’s resources through Spanish/English and Bilingual blog posts and social media. I also am a substitute librarian for the Glendale Library, Arts & Culture system.

How does your work align with service to Latinos and Spanish-speaking communities?

Most, if not all, of my work consists of providing Spanish material, resources, and services to our Los Angeles Spanish-speaking and Latinx community by purchasing books and resources that connect to the Spanish language. In addition, I also help with translations, which provides easier and equitable access to Spanish speaking folks.

What is your favorite aspect about your work?

My favorite aspect of my work is being able to connect library resources and material to folks from Latinx and Spanish speaking communities, especially generations who solely find themselves represented. I love being able to write blog posts that connect to a person’s cultural experiences growing up Latinx to libraries. In a society where we get so used to paying for subscriptions and material, I like to be able to share with folks that a lot of the trendy items, popular books, songs, etc., are available for free. 

What advice do you have for other librarians and present/future MLIS students?

Listen to yourself both spiritually and physically. Invest in yourself. Learn to find your voice and vocalize your interests and points of views. The beauty of this profession is that there really is something for everyone. Try out new things, keep tabs of what you like and what you do not like, what you’ve outgrown, but try to place yourself in new adventures. Never settle when you know you are worth a lot more. Be the librarian that you wish you had when you were growing up! 

What programs have you been in charge of or involved with?

Recently, I have been Chair or Co-Chair of the Author/Performer Sub-Committee of the Los Angeles Libros Festival during 2019, 2020, 2021, and now in 2023. I was also involved with the LA Made 2020/2021 LA Made Programming Series. 

What personal interests or hobbies do you have that you would like to share?

You can most likely find me spending time with family and friends on my days off. As my mother likes to tell me, “¡eres bien callejera!” I also am usually at Disneyland or randomly attending vending events around SoCal. I also collect art pieces from artists, so if you ever visit my home you can see different pieces I have purchased. 

Program Inspiration - Mini Cafecitos

As an organization whose purpose is to promote library and information services to Latinos and Spanish-speaking patrons, it is our honor to recognize the efforts of library workers and students across California doing just that. We hope to inspire others with new ways of engaging staff and patrons by highlighting these successful program ideas.

This month, we spotlight Sarah Wilson and Rosa Hughes de la Rosa from the REFORMA SJSU iSchool Student and Alumni Group on… Mini Cafecitos!

Program Type: Bilingual conversation group

Ideal Age Group: Teens, Adults

Frequency: Monthly or bi-monthly

Length of Time: 30 minutes

Supplies (for virtual events): 

• Computer

• Zoom account

• Additional staff or member from your team

• Exit survey for participants

• Discussion focus (e.g., working in the library and related vocabulary, etc.)

One of the most common questions asked about REFORMA is “Do I have to identify as Latinx or speak Spanish to join?” Not. At. All! Simply working with (or having a desire to work with!) this population is enough, which includes 40+ million people across the United States. That’s why when we think of innovative library programming, Mini Cafecitos immediately come to mind! This program–created by a graduate student–connects students and faculty from different departments around one common goal: to practice speaking Spanish.

Sarah Wilson, MLIS ‘22, recognized there was a need for students to feel confident speaking Spanish in their library careers. As a REFORMA student group executive board member, she had a unique position to serve the members of the SJSU community and share her interests in the language. Sarah worked with her Spanish 132 professor, Aurelio Días Ferreira, and her executive board committee, including Rosa, to offer informal Spanish conversation Zoom meetings called Mini Cafecitos.

The benefits to the SJSU student body were immense! The REFORMA student group fulfilled their mission of offering professional development and networking opportunities while supporting culturally competent professionals. For participating students, they were able to role-play typical library settings, build confidence, learn from their peers about the nuances of Spanish, and (for those enrolled in Aurelio’s class) earn a little extra credit. 

Ready to plan this program in your own academic library, internally at work, or even as a chapter-sponsored event? Then heed Sarah and Rosa’s advice for preparation, execution, and patience:

• Make sure you identify and articulate the need in your community, which will guide you in the planning process.

• Share the work of hosting, answering the chat, and monitoring the wait room with another co-worker or board member.

• Don’t be discouraged if your group starts out small because as awareness builds so will your participation!

Photo courtesy of the REFORMA San José State University Student & Alumni Group

Be sure to check out Sarah’s bilingual interview with Aurelio, which talks more about Mini Cafecitos here: https://ischoolgroups.sjsu.edu/reforma/?p=1225

Thank you, Sarah, Rosa, and Aurelio, for championing this innovative program! For questions and comments about this program, please connect with Sarah Wilson at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahkirbywilson/.

If you would like to nominate a library’s recent program or service for this blog series, please reach out to Erin Castillo at Erin.Castillo@SJSU.edu. 

Member Spotlight: Azalea Camacho

Azalea Camacho
Archivist and Special Collections Librarian
Special Collections and Archives, University Library, California State University, Los Angeles

What is your primary library service role? 

I am an Archivist and Special Collections Librarian. I first started at California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA) as the University Library Archivist for 5 years and slowly moved my way up to my current role as an Archivist and Special Collections Librarian. I have been in this role for 4 years. I oversee the operations of the department, which includes archival processing, instruction, reference, public services, outreach, and collection maintenance. I have strengthened community partnerships and fostered student curiosity in the field by providing engaging opportunities for the campus community. I have worked in Special Collections and Archives at Cal State LA for 9 years. 

Overall, I have 15 years experience working in academic libraries in special collections and archives settings. I am currently a fellow for the Andrew W. Mellon Fellowship for Diversity, Inclusion, and Cultural Heritage, which aims to advance multicultural collections through innovative and inclusive curatorial practice and leadership. I hold an MLIS with a concentration in archival studies from San Jose State University and a BS in communications from Cal Poly Pomona.

How does your work align with service to Latinos and Spanish-speaking communities?

I work for Cal State LA, which is a Hispanic-Serving Institution, Minority-Serving Institution, and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. My work as an Archivist and Special Collections Librarian is to document the lives and historic narratives reflected in our student population and bring to light their stories through instruction, outreach, and public programming. In order to engage with students and the campus community through my work, I not only preserve community archives but also work with them to bring to light their untold stories. The importance of this is that students begin to see themselves in the archives and the impact their communities have made to the culture of Southern California.

What is your favorite aspect about your work?

My favorite aspect about my work is engaging with students and the campus community. At Cal State LA I have been able to establish the Special Collections and Archives Student Assistant Program, which exposes Cal State LA students to the archival field, and provides hands-on training in processing, digitization, reference, instruction, programming/outreach and curation. Student assistants work closely with special collections personnel to develop projects that align with their academic goals and interests. The program is centered on the department's commitment to student success and fostering curiosity in the archival profession. The program offers an opportunity for students to combine their lived experience and expertise with the skills they acquire through guidance and training in archival practice. With this hands-on approach, I have been able to create a work environment that supports student’s thinking, and encourages dialogue and exchange of ideas. Through the program I have had the opportunity to provide mentorship to Cal State LA students that would like to pursue a career in archives.

What advice do you have for other librarians and present/future MLIS students?

Surround yourself with people in the field who have your best interest at heart. Once you have found those people, stick to them. They will help you get through the hard times and celebrate your good times.

What programs have you been in charge of or involved with?

At Cal State LA, I manage the Special Collections and Archives Student Assistant Program and the University Library Exhibits Program. I’ve also collaborated on many other outreach and public programming initiatives with fellow colleagues and the campus community.

What personal interests or hobbies do you have that you would like to share?

I am a true crime buff, especially when it comes to LA true crime. I collect vintage clothing and accessories from the 1920s through 1980s. I have also been known to be into the art of taxidermy.

How would you like to see the REFORMA Archives used?

I would like to see the REFORMA Archives grow to include oral histories and digital materials. At the moment, the archives are not fully processed and I would like to provide an internship opportunity for MLIS students interested in archival processing to make the collection accessible and discoverable. Once the collection is processed, the internship opportunity can continue through other projects, such as an oral history project and assisting with bringing awareness of the collection through public programming.