Member Spotlight -Emily Porter

August 26, 2024

This week's member spotlight is on Emily Porter. Emily is the ARTs Coordinator & Media Specialist at Curie High School and a member of the ILA Diversity Committee. She is a Chicago native and enjoys listening to music, dancing, and reading. 

We asked Emily to answer a few professional and amusing questions. Continue reading to find out more about Emily. 

How did you get your start in libraries?

When I was in 5th grade, my sister took me to the Chicago Public Library to conduct research about dinosaurs using the World Book Encyclopedia (there was no internet in 1985 and we could not afford a set for our home). After learning everything I could about the Cretaceous Period, I became a life-long user of public libraries.

Best advice you've received since starting your career in libraries?

"You can't do everything." - My current supervisor, Vanessa Ruiz

Any advice to newcomers working in libraries? 

Be kind, be patient, and listen to your patrons. 

When and why did you become a member of ILA?

I became an ILA member in 2023 because of the lack of representation of school librarians in Chicago. 

How has being a member of ILA helped you professionally? 

I have gained an understanding that issues of representation, funds, capital improvements, and equity span the entire state. I see opportunity in building partnerships with our suburban, rural, and remote librarian friends to advance literacy and library services to all of Illinois.

What is your proudest professional achievement to date?

I was inducted into the Chicago Public School's AISLE Chapter - CTLA Librarian Hall of Fame in 2014.

Hardcover, paperback, e-reader, audiobook, or all?

All. 

Favorite authors?

Matt De La Peña, Christian Robinson, Beatrix Potter, Anthony Doerr, and Amor Towles.

If you were stuck on a deserted island, what five books would you want with you to pass the time until being rescued?

  • Journey by Aaron Becker
  • Where's Walrus? by Stephan Savage
  • Flotsam by David Weisner
  • The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Bicycle Race by Donald Crews

Cat or Dog?

Cat.

Favorite film, podcast, or television show? 

I like the movie In the Time of the Butterflies with Selma Hayek. It's an oldie but goodie!

One person you would like to meet, dead or alive why?

I would love to meet Dolly Parton. She seems like a lot of fun and I just admire her Imagination Library work. 

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