April Member Spotlight - Gina Bolger



Gina Bolger
ILL and Reference Librarian 
Cornerstone University

MiALA Board Secretary


 
What are you currently reading?
I am one of those people who have several books going at one time. The books I've been picking up lately are Reading While Black by Esau McCauley, The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson, Prayer in the Night by Tish Harrison Warren, and Winterkeep by Kristin Cashore. I'm also listening to the Inspector Gamache eaudiobooks.

What are your research interests?
My research interests include information literacy at the point of need, embedded librarianship, and finding creative ways to sneak information literacy into classes and assignments.

Do you have hobbies or interests outside of the library?
I'm a lifelong learner so I have too many interests! Mainly I like to read, hike, kayak, sew, and spend time with friends and family.

What drew you to the library profession?
I took my sister's job at our local library when she left for college and worked there through the end of high school. One of the children's librarians kept asking me, "When are you going to become a librarian?" During that time I specialized in the children's area so I thought elementary education was my path. I went to college and earned my teaching degree while working in the university library. After teaching a year of kindergarten in Cleveland, I realized that it was actually the library I loved, not teaching! I moved to Michigan for my husband to go to grad school and got a job in the library at Cornerstone University. I have now worked here for 26 years and still love it. I have filled many positions here in the library over the years and I just love working with college age students and my amazing coworkers.

What do you value about MiALA?
MiALA has played such a positive role in my life! During our second annual conference, I heard Rachel Minkin give an impassioned plea for board members and volunteers. I was truly inspired by her talk and wanted to get involved in the organization. I nominated myself to serve as the secretary and was shocked when I got the position! I've now spent two terms as the board secretary and have loved learning about being on a board and meeting so many wonderful people. My position is opening up this year and I would encourage you to submit your name for this position or any of the other open spots. It has truly been an amazing experience!