Spotlight Interview: Jamie – A Librarian on a Mission to Connect, Create, and Inspire

Jamie Naylor, Digital Services Supervisor

Q: What does a typical day look like for you?

Honestly, there’s no such thing as a "typical day." I thrive on variety, and there are always a lot of different projects going on. One day I might be deep in software updates, the next I’m helping train staff or troubleshooting a tech issue. It keeps things interesting, and I love the problem-solving aspect of it.

We’re currently rolling out a new library catalog system. It’s a major improvement—visually and functionally—over the old one. The new interface pulls data differently from our previous library software, so there are lots of adjustments to make. I have enjoyed figuring all that out. 

Q: Tell me about your background and education.

My initial plan was actually to go into the military—and I did, right after high school. I’m a third-generation military veteran. After completing my service, I began pursuing a degree in secondary education. I wanted to teach history to high school students.

When teaching jobs didn’t pan out as quickly as I’d hoped, I talked to a local community college librarian in Illinois who encouraged me to explore library science. That conversation changed everything. I realized how much I loved helping people and how drawn I was to the library setting.

I eventually earned my master’s in library science from the University of Illinois. At first, I aimed to become a school librarian, and I did that for three years in a high school, helping students and supporting teachers.

When I moved to Florida, I found a niche in public libraries, specifically in teen services. I started with the Marion County Public Library System and later moved to Sarasota, where I’ve been for eight years. I began as a young adult services librarian and eventually moved into my current role.

Q: That’s an impressive journey! What’s your current position?

My role is much more behind the scenes. I support staff by managing digital literacy efforts, updating the website and app, and overseeing our internal SharePoint page. I also handle a lot of the technical issues that arise, helping ensure that staff have what they need to assist patrons effectively.

I supervise the digital literacy librarian and help guide the tech-related public tutorials and staff training programs we offer. I still get involved with public service when needed, especially if someone reaches out with a question through Microsoft Teams or email.

Q: What kind of professional development is involved in your role as Digital Services Supervisor?

My supervisor is very supportive of continuing education. I’ve attended state and national conferences, and last year, I attended a catalog-specific conference to help prepare for our current software upgrade. That knowledge helped me get excited about the changes and now I’m directly involved in implementing them.

I’m also participating in the Sunshine State Library Leadership Institute. Through this year-long training program, we have explored a variety of topics that relate to leadership within libraries. Attendees must also complete a leadership project, and I have used this opportunity to explore features of our intranet, SharePoint, to facilitate staff training and to consolidate information for launching our library software this year. As a relatively new supervisor, I appreciate the opportunity to use leadership skills and discuss progress with my colleagues in other Florida library systems.

Q: Is there something you do now that people don’t realize librarians do?

Definitely! A lot of people are surprised at how much tech support we provide. Whether it’s helping someone send an email, troubleshooting an app, or guiding them through filing an online form—we’re often the first point of contact for digital help. I even find myself giving tech tips to my own family, like how to submit IT support tickets. I enjoy taking the fear out of technology—it’s incredibly rewarding to watch someone go from intimidated to empowered.

Q: What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Helping people. That’s the constant thread through every part of my career. Whether it’s staff, patrons, or the community—I love knowing that I’ve helped someone solve a problem or learn something new. I also learn constantly—sometimes out of necessity, other times just because something catches my interest.

Q: How do you see the role of the library in the community?

I really resonate with our library’s mission—to connect people. We connect them to information, resources, and experiences. Whether it's a storytime for kids, a digital skills workshop, or simply a place to feel safe and welcome, libraries are vital hubs for community connection.

Q: Can you share a memorable moment with a patron?

One that stands out is when I was leading our mask-sewing project during the pandemic. We made over 7,000 masks systemwide. I taught staff how to use rotary cutters and sewing machines—it was intense but incredibly gratifying. It felt like we were directly supporting the community in a time of need.

Another favorite memory is designing an escape room program for teens. I loved crafting puzzles and building immersive experiences with themes like Stranger Things or Doctor Who. Those creative moments are some of the most fun and energizing.

Q: What’s your favorite space or program at the library?

The Creation Stations, hands down. I love the hands-on, creative opportunities we can provide to patrons—whether it’s technology, crafting, or digital editing.

Q: Did you go to the library as a child?

Yes! My mom used to take me when I had reports to do in elementary school and wanted something new to read. I remember using the card catalog, flipping through the cards with my fingers. There was also something magical about seeing who had checked out a book before me. You felt connected to others who’d held the same story in their hands.

Later, in high school, I learned to use microfiche. I remember thinking it looked intimidating until someone showed me how to use it—and then it felt easy. That experience helped shape my belief that technology isn’t scary—it just needs to be demystified.