I AM WLA 

March 22, 2017

Ahniwa Ferrari
Grays Harbor College, Aberdeen

Where do you work and what do you do there?

I work in the John Spellman Library at Grays Harbor College. I am the Associate Dean for Library, eLearning, and Media Services. Basically I run the library, the online learning program, the media services program, and the learning center (tutoring) program. 

What is the most important work that you and/or your organization do to benefit your community?

In the library we ensure that our students have access to the information they need to be successful at GHC, and have the expertise to use that information effectively. As an organization we help students in an economically depressed area find opportunities to learn, grow, and find success in or beyond the Harbor.

Approximately how long have you been a WLA member?

I attended some WLA events as early as 2005 and became a regular member from 2008 onward.

What is your most memorable WLA experience?

A librarian never tells … seriously though, there have been many. One that comes to mind is the Interest Group meet and greet event at the 2011 conference in Yakima. I was RIG (Reference Interest Group) chair at the time and we had origami and coloring contests set up for people who came to our table. It was a lot of fun meeting and talking to people, everyone really enjoyed the activities, and we got some great submissions in both categories.

In what ways have you gotten involved with WLA or taken advantage of its benefits?

I’ve chaired a handful of sections and divisions over the years and been active in a few committees. I like bringing people together to provide interesting and edifying programs at the conferences, and for my own benefit, enjoy the continuing education and networking opportunities that WLA provides.

What would you tell someone new to libraries about joining WLA?

I think everyone who works in a Washington library should be a part of WLA. You can be as active (or not) as you like, but the more you put into WLA the more you will get out of it. There is also a lot of room to make your own leadership role in WLA and help make it an association that meets your needs. If WLA isn’t already doing something you think would be cool, step up and make it happen!

If someone were writing your biography, what would the title be?

As much as I would like to think of something pithy, at this point I’d probably suggest “Just Getting Started.” In life and in this career I feel like I am just starting to pick up steam. I’m proud of my accomplishments to date but there is plenty more to do!