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Meet Katherine Knox & Laura Mikowski: Library Access Team Members

Post Date:02/22/2024

Selecting and cataloging books and library materials is a key position at the Hillsboro Public Library. It takes people who are passionate about providing a well-rounded collection that reflects the community and all the diverse interests.

Among those who answer that call on the Hillsboro Public Library’s Access Team are Katherine Knox, who serves as a Library Support Specialist, and Laura Mikowski, who serves as a Librarian.

Katherine & Laura, tell us about yourselves.

Katherine: I have a master’s degree in geochemistry, but I stumbled on a hiring ad (in the newspaper!) for a clerk with the Hillsboro Public Library in 2008 and have not looked back.

I am now a Library Support Specialist. When I am not cataloging, ordering, and processing interlibrary loans (ILLs), I help patrons with account and research questions. My hobbies are birding, drawing, crocheting, and, of course, reading. (Photo right)

Laura: I’m obsessed with children’s literature — its study, the art, function, and “best-of” practices that are in place and malleable in public libraries.

I’ve been a librarian for 35 years, with 29 years spent with Hillsboro Public Library. Because of my experience, I now manage 14 youth collections. That translates into selecting print materials for kids ages 0–18. I have so much fun looking for amazing materials that target both fiction and fact. The challenge of keeping the collection alive and relevant for our community fuels me to do my best.

When not working, I read, see live music, blast music while doing most anything outside of work, and plan camping/hiking outings while collecting daily snuggles from my rascally dog, Otis. I am never bored!

What is it like to spend a day doing your job?

Katherine: I spend a lot of time on the computer. After checking my service schedule and responding to emails from vendors and colleagues, I might order books, work on bibliographic records, check in ILLs, or help in the public area. I try to take breaks, walk around the pond occasionally, and I eat my meal in the break room or outside if it’s nice. Then, I’m back at the computer!

Laura: Much of my time is spent on the computer. My core work includes multiple moving pieces pertaining to building and balancing the youth collection. I need to be aware of publishing and pop culture trends, new science discoveries, new & classic authors, and the latest practices and formats of materials. Front and center are using the budget in a cost-efficient way. (Photo right)

I use data, feedback, reviews, previews, professional webinars, and conversations to keep on track. My colleagues at both locations let me know if we have a gap, need more room on the shelf, or offer a title that would be a great addition. My practice includes visiting Big Box stores to see what’s trending and then consider duplicating those materials here at the library. The multifaceted pieces and pace keep me excited about this journey and work.

I spend time on the floor connecting with our patrons and community. I like interacting with our elders and children the most.

When you walk through the library, what do you see and think about?

Katherine: While walking through the library, I am looking for patrons and coworkers who might need help; I am restocking displays and shelving holds; and I am looking for new books to read and recommend!

Laura: Because I’m collection-focused when I’m out with patrons, I always ensure our displays are filled, the shelves neatened, and patrons are helped!

Tell us a good story about your job.

Katherine: Have you ever worked with someone you may never meet? Sometimes, interlibrary loan departments from different states like to send notes and stickers to each other with the ILLs for fun. It’s our way of saying, “Hello! It’s so nice working with you!”

Laura: Sometimes, we find items in returned books that I like to keep and collect into a shrine at my desk. From the “I love the library” scratch paper notes left on a table or handed directly to me, to a recent find — a very fine notebook paper mini purse. These little treasures always brighten my day! (Photo right)

What inspires you?

Katherine: Learning and helping people.

Laura: The work I do, the children I represent, and, like Katherine, serving and helping the community are big inspirational motivators for me.

Katherine and Laura, members of the Hillsboro Public Library Access Team

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