Staff Spotlights
Why is DEIA important to you?
In embracing DEIA principles, I am committed to contributing to a library culture that actively supports the richness of human diversity and strives to eliminate any barriers that may hinder individuals from fully participating and benefiting from the resources and services offered. On a personal level, creating an environment at the library where everyone can freely express their unique identities, experiences, and perspectives is crucial to me. It’s important that everyone feels comfortable sharing who they are without worrying about judgment or discrimination. This way, our library becomes a welcoming space that embraces diversity and values the richness of each person in our community.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is being part of an organization that genuinely cares for both the individuals we serve and the colleagues I work alongside. The services we provide are like a deep oasis of information and resources, continually evolving to meet changing needs. It's truly remarkable that the people in at OCLS have a sincere concern for customers and show empathetic care for those they serve. I appreciate that each division is consistently expanding, exploring ways to extend services, and identifying and addressing gaps to make resources more accessible to everyone.
What is one movie, book, or TV show that has made you feel a strong sense of belonging?
"Hidden Figures" is a film that celebrates intellect, determination, and the significant impact three remarkable women had on the space program. The movie inspired me with its portrayal of resilience, sisterhood, and self-discovery, resonating deeply with a sense of connection and empowerment. These women served as role models, inspiring others to challenge stereotypes and pursue careers in technology.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I’m an avid traveler and a tea enthusiast, both abroad and in conus. With approximately 40 states and three continents already explored, I’m on a mission to create a diverse and delicious tea collection that mirrors the cultural richness of my personality.
Why is DEIA important to you?
DEIA is important to me because I know what it’s like to hold back parts of yourself because of fear you’ll be met with rejection or judgment. I don’t want anyone to have to hold back. I want to help work towards a future where everyone can be comfortable, seen, and safe to be themselves without judgment and discrimination.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I’m very passionate about learning. I’m lucky to be on a team that’s dedicated to helping others (and myself) grow personally and professionally. #lifelonglearners
What is one movie, book, or TV show that has made you feel a strong sense of belonging?
The show One Day at a Time had many jokes and cultural experiences that I related to growing up in a Hispanic household.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I flew to Chicago in May 2023 to see SUGA of BTS perform for his D-Day Tour.
What does Hispanic Heritage mean to you?
I view Hispanic Heritage Month as a celebration of the uniqueness and diversity that compose the Hispanic and Latin diaspora. Though a slightly antiquated term, as I prefer Latin Heritage Month. Often mainstream Western culture can lump all Latin people into one group, ignoring the differences of each Hispanic/Latin subgroup. When in reality there are enormous and often fascinating differences in music, food, customs and even the type of Spanish used between different Latin cultures. I am a first-generation child of Cuban immigrants; my husband is a Venezuelan immigrant, and we are constantly learning and finding differences in our culture and how we interact with our Latin identities. There are 20 countries both inside and outside of Latin America with Spanish as their official language. As of 2021 about 19% of the total US population identify as Latino. Latin people can come from all over the world and reflect any racial background. Because of this, we are one of the most diverse ethnic groups on the planet. This month is a reminder that the differences between us are a cause for celebration and are often what make us strong.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
As an Outreach Specialist, I get to think outside the box and provide library resources to the community in new ways. In my time I have had the opportunity to work with hospitals, Senior Centers, Rehabilitation Centers, Head Start, and even concert venues to promote the library and bring opportunities to others that otherwise would not have been possible.
What is one movie, book, or TV show that has made you feel a strong sense of belonging?
High Risk Homosexual by Edgar Gomez. This is a memoir currently available at OCLS that was written by my lifelong best friend. Edgar chronicles his life growing up as a queer Latinx person in Central Florida and I am in the book!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
My husband and I make up the entire tenor section of SOLO, a queer Spanish language ensemble that performs at events around town.
What drives your passion for DEIA?
My passion comes from my mission to help people reach their highest potential. Whether it’s working to remove obstacles, finding paths forward, or learning and developing new knowledge to grow personally and professionally, I want people to succeed. I have not had the easiest path of acceptance, inclusion, or belonging in my life. I grew up in a small town, have had leaders that called me names to other staff behind my back, and yelled at me in front of students and staff. I never want someone to feel mired in those feelings of hopelessness. I have dedicated my professional and personal life to give voice to those who are not heard and make space for those who are not typically invited. We all deserve to live our best lives.
What do you love most about your job?
What I love most about being a part of OCLS and as one of two inaugural DEIA specialists, is working with a diverse staff to help them and the communities we serve have access to the resources they need to improve their lives.
What is one movie, book, or TV show that has made you feel a strong sense of belonging?
I’m throwing it way back here, I would say, The Birdcage starring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane. I was at the opening night in the theaters in 1996. There are parts that may be problematic today, but overall, I think it has stood the test of time. More than anything, it was one of the first mainstream movies that portrayed being queer in a positive light. I needed that so desperately then.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I was once on Deal or No Deal (I was a couch supporter for a coworker) and in high school I sang live in front of an audience of 5000 students, teachers, and parents.
Why is DEIA important to you?
I’m a people lover. Showing kindness to others is a daily goal of mine. I’m not perfect, therefore I may fail a time or two, but I thrive on seeing people treated fairly and equally. My involvement with the DEIA committee gives me incite on the struggles as well as the successes of others, as we endeavor to make our workplace a safe and enjoyable home away from home.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I feel blessed to have a job that I truly love. There are times when storytelling has been a form of therapy for me. There are days when I’d wake up with a dark cloud over my head, but by the time storytime is over, the dark cloud is gone, flowers are blossoming, and the sun is shining. I feel rewarded whenever I’m able to share my craft with this new society of children who are drawn to computer screens or game systems. The idea that I have left an imprint on the memories of the thousands of children I’ve met over the years fills my heart with joy. The notion that adults are walking around with a love of reading because of their storytime visits to the library makes me happy. When many of them think of the library, they may think of that lady Miss Crystal who made them laugh and smile.
What is one movie, book, or TV show that has made you feel a strong sense of belonging?
Their Eyes Were Watching God is a book written by Zora Neale Hurston that was adapted into a film. Though the story is based on how times were for many African American women back in the 1920’s, it can be held relevant today. The trials and tribulations that many of us endure just to be heard or seen has been a challenge. Just trying to find happiness or dealing with life is always a work in progress. Not to mention, the story is based in our beloved Eatonville, the town that Zora Neal Hurston grow up in.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I love to dance. As I age, I’ve been saying, “the day the good lord decides to take my dancing legs away from me is going to be the saddest day of my life. Until then, I will continue to dance the night away.
Why is DEIA important to you?
DEIA is important to me because I believe everyone deserves an equal voice. I know how frustrating it can be when part of your identity is ignored or pushed aside, and I don't want anyone else to suffer through that.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy getting to learn more about the impact our collection makes throughout our community. I also find it so empowering that I get to help make our collection more accessible with ebooks and audiobooks.
What is one movie, book, or TV show that has made you feel a strong sense of belonging?
El Deafo by Cece Bell. El Deafo was the first book where I saw a deaf character. Not only was there a deaf character, but they were the main character, and they celebrated their deafness.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I have three cats!
What does Hispanic Heritage mean to you?
I am proudly Hispanic, born and raised in a Hispanic culture that is embedded in my core; it’s who I am, the food I love, the family I miss, and the traditions I treasure. Hispanic Heritage is recognizing and embracing who we are and sharing it with everyone else.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I get to work with people who share the same passion for helping others as me. Our job is exciting, and constantly changing, just like the communities around us. It is true when I say that I learn something new at work every single day.
What is one movie, book, or TV show that has made you feel a strong sense of belonging?
Little America on Apple TV. It tells the stories of immigrants in America.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I don’t like water.
What drives your passion for DEIA?
My personal struggles drive my passion for DEIA. Growing up trying to make sense of my queerness along with being an immigrant was not the easiest. I've experienced my share of discrimination and racism which for a long time led to feeling like an outsider and had a huge impact on my mental health. Today, I've reached a point where I'm comfortable with who I am and celebrate my differences. As a result, I'm driven to help others reach a point where they can present themselves authentically. I'm also driven by the desire to advocate for underrepresented communities so that my struggles are not something others have to experience.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The part I enjoy most about my role is seeing how much OCLS staff are ready to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. By no means is OCLS perfect, but it's amazing to see so many champions across the system advocating for underrepresented communities to ensure that we're moving toward a culture where everyone in our community feels seen and included.
What is one movie, book, or TV show that has made you feel a strong sense of belonging?
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe was the first book I truly felt seen as the main character is both Mexican and gay. This was the first time I saw that intersectionality represented and the book helped me connect with my own identity.
For TV, I connected with East Los High. Although, my life is not as drama-filled as the show, my connection to the show was the all-Latino cast. The show was a way for me to connect with my Mexican heritage.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
In 2011, I was hired as the principal clarinetist on the orchestra for the rock band, Kansas, during their Orlando tour stop.
