Jacob Gallay, MLIS, MA 

Why did you choose to become a librarian?

I became a librarian because I was working in academic/STEM publishing and unsatisfied with my career. My wife works as a pediatric pharmacist and told me that she would see medical librarians rounding with the doctors and that was like an amazing epiphany to me: I had no idea how widespread librarianship was outside of public and academic libraries. It looked like it matched my interests more than editing did. So I worked on my MLIS and volunteered at a couple of libraries to get experiences and started at Augusta University as the Clinical Information Librarian.

Where did you attend college?

I have my MLIS from Valdosta State University (GA), an MA in English Lit/Creative Writng from Hofstra University (NY), and a BA in Sociology from Catholic University of America (DC).

What is your hometown?

I'm originally from Babylon, NY.

What is your favorite book?

There’s too many but I usually use Michael Chabon’s “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay” as my default answer. 

What is your favorite feature in your library/favorite part of your job ?

My favorite thing about my career is by far reference work, especially when it’s difficult information to find. There’s nothing I enjoy more then when a resident or hospitalist asks me for the latest information on a topic or patient case.

What are your hobbies outside your job?

My hobbies include reading and writing, kickboxing, hosting bar trivia, podcasting, and streaming video and board games, which includes participating in fundraising through the Extra Life gaming charity event for children’s hospitals. 

Do you have any hidden talents?

Hidden talents: I can sing (I used to do theater back in school/college).