Meet A Member: Samantha Thomason

What is your VLA position?
ALA Counselor

What do you hope to accomplish in your time as an elected member of the VLA Executive Committee?
More than anything, I hope to spread the word about how rewarding it is to be involved with VLA. This organization is incredibly supportive and offers so many opportunities for those who want to contribute to their profession.

Where do you work?
Central Rappahannock Regional Library, Fredericksburg, Virginia

What is your current position?
Community Relations Manager

When did you first know that you wanted to be a librarian?
Despite my love of reading and English major background, it took me awhile to realize librarianship was the right path for me. I worked as a web developer for my library for over 10 years before it really sunk in that I didn't just like working in a library, but I had a passion for the field and it was time to get serious about pursuing a career as a librarian.

What was your first library job?
Intern — I worked on a local authors project.

What is your favorite part of librarianship?
Empowering people, strengthening our community, and Books & Beer club

What is the funniest thing that has ever happened to you on the job?
I can't think of anything funny at the moment, but I can share one of my favorite experiences. I was on the reference desk and a tween girl approached me, asking for a copy of Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. I asked her if she had to read the books for school, and she said, "No, I just want to read them." She was so happy to get those two books.

If you could have anything in the universe installed in your office for your personal use, what would it be?
Espresso machine

What is something your colleagues would be surprised to know about you?
I love Thai boxing and I'm trying to learn to play the ukulele.

Interviewed by Gregg Grunow

Want to be featured on Meet a Member? Email Gregg at [email protected].
Don't miss the other entries in our Meet A Member — Leadership Edition.