Staff Profile - October 2016

Pablo Creek Region Manager Sara Roberts came to JPL from Ventura, CA, where she served as Deputy Director of the Ventura County Library System. She and her husband, Shane, moved to Jacksonville the latter part of 2015 and she started with JPL, January 4, 2016.  In her brief tenure, she has proven to be an asset working under the leadership of her immediate supervisor, Assistant Director for Public Services, Julie McNeil.

Q:  What drew your interest to a career in library management?

A:  Every summer I took part in the Summer Reading Program at my local library. My parents did not go to college, nor did they care too much about grades or education. They did know that I loved to read. My mom took me to the library and let me choose whatever I wanted. I very clearly remember the SRP at my local branch because I would win a free personal pan pizza from Pizza Hut after I read so many books. Coming from my background, this was like winning the lottery. Not only was I reading, but I was providing for my family. That may sound odd for a small child, but it happens. I loved that little building more than anything else. I found myself and my place in the public library.

When I began my career, I sought out opportunities to effect change. That’s how I ended up in library management. Not because it’s so much fun, or super rewarding. It’s because I know that what I do helps other children experience the magic I felt in the library. Every decision I make should reflect the core values of the library, that’s why I manage.

Q:  You could probably apply some of the management principles and experience from your tenure as Deputy Director of the Ventura County Library System to your present position with JPL.  Please tell us about that.

A:  The great thing about being second in charge is that you finally see behind the curtain. The terrible thing is that you finally see behind the curtain. It’s very easy to sit in a branch and complain about the people setting priorities. But once you have to make those decisions you start to see how all of the gears fit together, and you are responsible for making it work with little to no resources. I learned many things in that position, but the size and impact of JPL is much greater!

Q:  What other experience and community service have you had that has been indispensable to the professional you are today?

A:  Well, my first master’s degree is in teaching. I spent a few years in the classroom and that was extremely helpful in shaping who I am today. Mostly, my experience as a Librarian moving through each position up the crazy jungle gym/career ladder has been my guide.

Also, I make it a point to not only study library science, but management principles as well. I am always on the lookout for more information and better ways of doing things. It’s a fun challenge, and I appreciate learning from others.

Q:  You have had a successful career for a young professional; what would be your advice to other young professionals on their career path?

A:  It isn’t easy! You have to push yourself to be better, and push your people to be better. We’re lucky because our goal is to change the world, not make someone more money. Sometimes you have to recommit yourself to that goal.

Q: What is the most rewarding experience—professionally or personally—you have had?

A:  What a question! I would have to say the day I graduated from college. It was rough going for a while but I have never felt more proud than the day I got my BA and walked across the stage. Nothing works unless you do, and I put in the work!