Posted March 31, 2017
Richland Library Learning Engagement Manager Susan Lyon is more than just a 2006 MLIS alumna — she’s also a 2017 Public Library Association Fellow. Lyon recently participated in a week-long leadership development program with other library leaders from across the nation.
What do you do in your current job?
I lead and develop learning initiatives for Richland Library staff. A few examples
include employee onboarding, tech skills and leadership development. My department
anticipates and responds to the learning needs of both library staff and customers.
We like to think of this as the parallel path of learning.
What’s the most interesting or significant thing you’ve done since graduating?
Become a mom to a vivacious, strong-minded little girl
You’ve recently been named a PLA Leadership Fellow. Tell us a little about that honor
and what impact you hope it will have.
As a fellow, I will have the opportunity to participate in a week-long leadership
development program with other library leaders across the nation. I look forward
to collaborating with these colleagues as we identify specific projects that will
better our communities.
What are you passionate about in your work?
I am passionate about encouraging people to take ownership for their own learning.
My learning engagement team at Richland Library (some of the most amazing people on
the planet) help design environments and opportunities that encourage learning. When
we observe someone becoming inspired and wanting to learn more is when we know we're
doing something right
What did you learn while in school at the CIC that still resonates today?
Never stop learning!
Do you have a favorite professor or a favorite memory from your time at the CIC?
I laugh as I recall Dr. Dan Barron pointing his finger at us in my very first SLIS
course, and in a bombastic, almost militaristic voice saying, "information to the
people; womb to the tomb!" We were having fun, but it was, at that time, I realized
what an incredible responsibility we have as librarians to provide access to learning
throughout someone's entire life. No other institution does this. He helped me see
just how essential public libraries are for a democratic society.