Welcome to CCML!

New Member Profile

Alexandria Austermann 

Why did you choose to become a librarian?

I’ve always been a voracious reader and I thought being a librarian would be an amazing job. Of course, I also imagined that librarians were paid to sit around and read all day. The real barrier to me becoming a librarian was that I imagined it was a very low paying job. Something you did for love, not money. Then I found a job listing for a librarian that actually paid a decent wage and I signed up for an MLS program the same day.

Where did you attend college?

My MLIS is from Florida State University but I was in an online program. I only visited campus for graduation.

What is your hometown?

I’m from Flint, Michigan, which is not nearly as bad as everyone thinks it is.

What is your favorite book?

It would be impossible to pick just one. I have favorite authors that I end up reading everything they’ve wrote but I also like finding new authors and books. My favorite book is one that leaves me feeling satisfied at the end. It doesn’t have to be a happy ending as long as it works for the story.

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

I love solving puzzles and I get to do a lot of that as a research librarian. I’m asked to track down old reports or find answers to interesting questions. I’ve also been contacted several times by people who want to know what to do with the bobcat in their yard. Call someone who isn’t a librarian. (The correct answer is call local law enforcement or the nearest CPW office. They actually know what to do.)

What are your hobbies outside your job?

Reading, of course. I knit and sew, when I’m in the mood. I like to go on rambles with the husband and the dog where we look for interesting rocks. Not valuable ones, just ones that we find interesting.

Do you have any hidden talents?

If I do, they’re hidden from me.