Welcome to our fifth ALASC profile. This is a series of introductions of ALASC board members, SLIS students, and other information professionals who you may want to hear from. If you’re interested in being profiled, please message us! This was originally published on our Facebook page in November.
For our fifth profile, please meet Hilary Keith. Hilary started her library career as a clerk for the San Luis Obispo City/County Library. From there, she went on to be a children’s librarian, adult services librarian and Senior Branch Manager for OC public libraries. Currently, Hilary is the Director of Library and Cultural Services for the City of Santa Fe Springs. Hilary received her Bachelor’s Degree in English from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and her MLIS from San Jose State University, where she was one of the founding members of SJSU ALASC. She is now on the California Library Association Board of Directors.
“It’s been a long circuitous route to where I am now from SJSU. I graduated in December 94 with an MLS. They just started giving an MLIS in 95! Currently I am the director of the Santa Fe Springs City Library. I came here from Orange County Public Library System in 2007, where I was the senior branch manager at the Aliso Viejo Branch. I love being a director; it is fulfilling to articulate a vision to a motivated staff and watch it become a reality. I really enjoy connecting with the community and promoting our library and all its resources. If you ever get a chance to be a part of a renovation or building project, do it! Santa Fe Springs went through a 5million dollar renovation and not only did I learn a lot, but it involved creating relationships and building consensus which was challenging, but fun.
A small group of LIS students got together and thought it was a shame and a little embarrassing that we didn’t have an ALA Student Chapter.   So we elected officers, Cornelia Van Aken was Chair,and I was co-chair. We selected an advisor; I can’t remember who it was,probably Dr. Linda Main. Our new chapter was recognized by SJSU and ALA on May 17,1994. The best part of being in ALASC was definitely the camaraderie and the feeling we were doing something that got us closer to our profession.
My only fear for the library field is that our seat at the proverbial table may be eroding due to misguided budget priorities. Yet, my hope is that libraries continue to be nimble and resourceful in adapting to an ever changing world.”
Students are welcome to contact Hilary at hilarykeith@santafesprings.org