TRISH INTERVIEW

by

Jennifer Bradford,‘25

 

 

  1. Why did you choose Stonehill? - After getting my master’s in library science from Simmons, I wanted to move into academic librarianship. I had worked at school and public libraries while in grad school and wanted a change. I saw the advertisement for the Stonehill job and immediately applied. I was familiar with the school as my husband is an alum. After coming up for the interview, seeing the beautiful campus and meeting the people who would become my colleagues, it was an easy choice. 
  2. What made you choose a career as a reference librarian? - Before becoming a librarian, I worked as a newspaper reporter for more than 15 years. I became disenchanted with that profession and the relentless stream of bad/tragic stories that I had to deal with. I still, however, loved research and asking questions. As a lifelong library-lover, a career in librarianship seemed like a natural progression. You’d be surprised how many librarians are former journalists! 
  3. What’s your favorite book or genre? - My favorite book is Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre and for many years, I read it at the start of every summer. I read a lot of different genres and suppose my favorite could be broadly described as literary fiction. Right now, I’m on an uplifting stories kick, and I am enjoying reading Japanese translated feel-good fiction. I recommend What You’re Looking for is in the Library by  Michiko Aoyama.   
  4. Do you have a favorite Stonehill moment? There are so very many, but I have to say I really love the memories of our lunchtime pickleball matches. The faculty, staff, and students who participated have brought me a lot of joy and friendship. 
  5. Any plans after “retirement?” I’ll spend much of the summer in Western Maine hiking, swimming, and gardening. In August, my husband and I are taking a two-week trip to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc in France, Italy and Switzerland. He hates the term “bucket list”, but this is one of my bucket list trips. When we return, I’ll consider whether I want to return to public libraries on a part time basis. 
  6. Any advice for those in a similar career path? No advice. Librarianship is a great career, and librarians are so very critically needed – now more than ever. 
  7. How long have you been at Stonehill? - 19 years. 
  8. What did you do before Stonehill? - Newspaper reporter. 
  9. If you could change anything, what would it be - either job or campus wise? I don’t think I’d change anything, although I’d urge everyone on campus - administrators, faculty and staff - to pay a visit to the library some Monday through Wednesday evening between around 6 or 8 or so. During our busiest times, it does feel like the library is the center of our academic universe. 
  10. What was your favorite library event? I enjoy our fall and spring semester De-Stress events. The students seem especially appreciative of the free coffee and donuts! 
  11. What are you going to miss the most about Stonehill and/or the library? My friends. I am so fortunate to count former students, library co-workers, and college staff members among my dear friends. We've been through a lot together, and I'm grateful for the kind support they've given me over the years. I look forward to staying in touch, and I hope I’ll see some of them at future pickleball games.