Kristen Desanto, MSLS, MS, RD, AHIP

Strauss Health Sciences Library, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

Clinical Librarian

Why did you choose to become a librarian? I was a hospital registered dietitian for ten years. Over that time I saw a need for connecting clinicians (of all fields) with appropriate health information so they could provide their patients the best care possible. I realized that changing to medical librarianship would allow me to use my healthcare background to connect clinicians with information.

Where did you attend college? For my undergraduate degree I attended Austin College in Sherman, Texas, a private liberal arts college of 1200 students. I got my library science degree at the University of North Texas in Denton.

What is your hometown? New Orleans. I really miss the food, music, traditions, and culture!

What is your favorite book? I just finished A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles and loved it!

What is your favorite feature in your library/favorite part of your job? I love making someone’s job easier and freeing up more time for them to spend with their patients. That could be through teaching them to search databases more efficiently, using reference management software to its full capabilities, or consulting clinical point-of-care tools to quickly find high-level evidence.

What are your hobbies outside of your job? I enjoy baking, reading, birdwatching, and skiing.

Do you have any hidden talents? I make a really good three-layer Italian cream cake! The recipe came from the Parkland Hospital kitchen (the Dallas County public hospital). They served this cake in the cafeteria on Thursdays, and every slice would sell out!