Title: Librarian for Latin American, Iberian and Latino Studies
Library/Department: International and Area Studies
Location: Perkins Library
Years at Duke: Ten months
In a nutshell, what do you do at Duke University Libraries?
I develop our collections from and about Latin America, the Iberian Peninsula, and U.S. Latinos, as well as provide research assistance and instruction to students, faculty, and other researchers.
If you had to pick one thing, what’s the best part of your job so far?
I can’t pick just one thing, so here are a few: I love that my geographic area is so expansive because every research consultation that I do is different and keeps me on my toes (I appreciate learning about new topics, regions, sources, etc.). Also, I have brilliant and easy-going colleagues! Oh, and the opportunity to go abroad and acquire library materials isn’t bad, either!
What the best thing you’ve read/watched/listened to recently?
I recently finished Punk Paradox by Greg Graffin. It is Graffin’s memoir covering his idyllic, smalltown Wisconsin childhood, his coming-of-age in the early 80s Los Angeles punk scene, and his 40+ year tenure as frontman for one of that scene’s biggest bands — all while pursuing an academic career as an evolutionary biologist. I am also getting through Days of Rage by Bryan Burrough, an account of the war between the FBI and the bomb-happy radical underground of the 70s.
What do you like most about living in The Triangle?
I like that there are actually trees here. I come from the land of scraggly palms and concrete. So, going on daily walks in the forest is nice and different!
What do you like to do outside of work?
See the last two questions. Also, I recently started cooking almost daily. And when I don’t cook, I like to sample the Triangle’s culinary offerings! I recommend Hutchin’s Garage.
