Welcome to the 2020 Academic Year, Huskies! Normally you get to know our UW Tacoma Library staff by stopping by our desks in SNO and TLB. Since that isn’t possible at the moment, we wanted to introduce you to our staff in a series of blog posts.

Remember, we are here for you via 24/7 chat, drop-in help, or you can schedule an appointment with your liaison librarian.

Meet Elexa!

How do you work with faculty and students in your current role at the UW Tacoma Library?

I am a Reference Specialist for Research Help. I support librarians through creative and informational projects like displays and research guides while also teaching students how to utilize our library resources.

What drew you to working in libraries?

As an undergraduate I worked in my university’s library. There I enjoyed connecting with my campus community and working in a place that promoted learning. Once I left college, I began pursuing a creative career, but missed the community I had built in the library which inspired me to change my career path and work towards becoming a librarian. Now I am in the Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program at UW and work at the UW Tacoma Library helping others find information and resources to support them in their educational journey. Supporting students through information has helped me share in a great information exchange with my peers.

What parts of your job are you most excited about?

I am most excited about finding new ways to connect to our patrons in this new, virtual environment. I am trying to take on opportunities where I can chat, teach, or be available for students through our different online services.

How has your job shifted because of COVID-19?

Prior to the pandemic, much of my job consisted of working at the Research Help desk answering questions, assisting with in-person displays and research guides among other projects. Since entering into a remote environment I have engaged in virtual research help through chat, email, Zoom, while also developing posts for the UW Tacoma Library blog.

Have you read or watched anything good lately?

TED-Ed Riddles on Youtube and My Octopus Teacher on Netflix

Any advice for UWT students?

Learn as much as you can and make your experience at UW Tacoma your own. Try a new class, join a club, watch an interesting lecture, or do something else that teaches you something new. It could lead you on a path that you didn’t know was possible! Also, if you find yourself stuck, reach out for help. There are many people in the UW community who can help and support you through your educational journey.