Starting this semester, Christie Silotch will be filling the void left by the retired Linda Kramer at the Willey Library. She comes to us as the new instructional services librarian with a bachelor’s in English and a master’s in library and information studies (MLIS). She has worked as a library assistant and a school of management librarian, but she was also a designer at Morrisville’s Turtle Fur.

 
“I’ve always been an avid maker-creator on the side,” she said. “Working as a designer was a chance to try my creative interests out professionally, but libraries are where I belong. I love being able to use my energies to help people, promote curiosity and teach others how to research.”

 
Teaching others and providing resources are two large components of her duties. “I personally see my job here as making sure that students and faculty are aware of all the resources we have to offer, teaching people how to use those resources, instilling information literacy and research skills, and generally supporting campus learning,” she said.

 
What does that mean for students? Basically, she’s here to help. “Even if I don’t know the answer, I can help you find it,” she said. “Anything from a serious research question to a technological difficulty to finding help elsewhere on campus.”

Silotch grew up in New Jersey but has been living in Vermont for three years. She has so far found the Johnson community inviting, if sometimes busy.

 
“The campus also reminds me so much of a community college near where I grew up, where I took some memorable classes,” she said. “But with a much better view.”

 
Anyone can find her in the library. She is either in her office or sitting at the reference desk, which stands right by the entrance. “I’m always available by email,” she said, “and can make one-on-one or group appointments. My office is on the second floor of the library near the top of the spiral staircase. Stop by and say hello.”