Member Spotlight - Rene Leyva
January 24, 2024
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This week's member spotlight is on Rene Leyva. Rene is the director of the Fossil Ridge Public Library District. He was a member of the 2023 ILA Conference Program Committee and is a current member of the 2024 ILA Conference Program Committee.
We asked Rene to tell us a little about himself and answer a few professional and amusing questions. Continue reading to find out more about Rene.
How did you get your start in libraries?
After completing my Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts with a concentration in Art History, I was unsure of what career path to pursue. While I didn't want to teach, I did want to support the arts. Both of my sisters, who work in the library field, suggested that I could do so by providing art programs at a library. I researched different library positions and was amazed by the potential impact libraries can have in their communities. Received my MLIS at Dominican University and completed four internships to gain relevant experience in the field before I landed my first part-time job at the Cicero Public Library.
Best advice you've received since starting your career in libraries?
Have compassion and empathy towards all staff members. Understand that we are all individuals going through different stages in life. We must work with our staff, encourage growth, and challenge ourselves to bring out the best in people. Don’t look at the weaknesses but at an individual's strengths to build a better work environment.
Any advice to newcomers working in libraries?
Always be true to yourself. People will appreciate you for who you are. Librarians are unique individuals, and I personally enjoy having conversations with them to learn about their beliefs and ways of doing things. I listen without judgment and offer my assistance whenever needed.
When and why did you become a member of ILA?
I have been a member of ILA on and off since 2014. However, in 2021, when I was hired as the Library Director of Fossil Ridge, I decided to actively participate in bringing about positive change in our profession. I want to be at the head of the table and contribute my ideas to help library professionals in all types of libraries. I hope one day to be elected by my peers to be part of ILA’s Executive Board and work with all the talented volunteers who form the backbone of the organization.
How has being a member of ILA helped you professionally?
Networking can be intimidating, but by joining an ILA committee, you can meet people with the same interests as yours. I’ve had invaluable conversations with long-time ILA members; I took in all the advice and appreciated their time. I am also fortunate to have participated in Director's University. This program has provided me with the ability to review shared resources and it still has been helpful in times of need.
What is your proudest professional achievement to date?
I created an At-Home Delivery Service that not only helps individuals with physical disabilities but is also open to anyone who needs assistance. Fossil Ridge covers over 160 square miles of land. Most of our residents are hardworking, blue-collar families that want to be with their families and eat dinner right after work. Instead of waiting for them to visit, we allow patrons to place holds and our Outreach staff will then deliver the requested materials to their doorstep three times a week. The new service doubled the number of users from our previous bookmobile service; expenses decreased significantly allowing available funds to be allocated towards enhancing the overall library experience within the building.
Hardcover, paperback, e-reader, audiobook, or all?
I enjoy reading newspapers, online articles, and murder-mystery paperbacks.
Favorite authors?
Laura Hillenbrand, Allen Eskens and Stephen King.
If you were stuck on a deserted island, what five books would you bring with you to pass the time until being rescued?
- Stay Alive Guide
- The Bible
- Life After Death
- Life After Death: A Study of the Afterlife in World Religions
- Sign Language for Beginners
- The Sword and the Shield
- The Revolutionary Lives of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. by Peniel E. Joseph
Cat or Dog?
Dog. I have two doggies - a standard 84 lb Goldendoodle and his little buddy, Rex, a 25 lb Miniature Aussiedoodle.
Favorite film, podcast, or television show?
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.
One person you would like to meet, dead or alive why?
My grandfather, Manuel Unzueta.
A migrant worker who worked tirelessly to support his family. I want to thank him for his sacrifices, which allowed family members to survive poverty and increase their chances for a better opportunity. My family has never let others determine our destiny; we have always taken control of our own path. He passed away from brain cancer before I could make any memories with him, but his drive to help others is still an inspiration and reminds me to be a better human being to those around me.
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