Hooper finds dream job at library
Rachel Hooper realized she had a chance at her dream job and seized the prospect. She has joined Madison Public Library staff as adult services librarian.
Hooper had looked for a full-time position since moving to Huntsville. “Just before this position opened, I mentioned to a former coworker that this was my dream job,” she said. “Surprisingly, it opened. I was very excited to get the position.”
In previous jobs, Hooper worked as reference librarian at Dougherty County Public Library in Albany, Ga. for 18 months.
“I was working part time as a reference librarian at Salmon Library at the University of Alabama in Huntsville for 18 months, while also working as a ‘floater’ at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library about 17 months,” she said.
As a ‘floater,’ Hooper filled in gaps at the various branches in Madison County whenever help was needed. “I mostly worked the circulation desk and shelved,” she said. She also worked with the reference collection and special projects and events.
“I really enjoy adult services and helping people find the information and books they need,” Hooper said. “As a floater, I had worked at Madison on numerous occasions and knew it was a great branch with a wonderful, efficient staff.”
As adult services librarian, Hooper will coordinate adult programming, book groups and audio-visual material. Her first major project is the Madison Mega-Marathon, which kicks off in 2012 as a yearlong reading event.
“I’m also the go-to person for any e-reader or e-book help with Nooks and Kindles,” Hooper said.
Hooper hopes to increase programs and events for adult library patrons and continue building the audio-visual collection at the Madison branch. “I would also like to assess the needs of the community and help meet those needs whenever possible,” she said.
Hooper earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration at Troy University and a master’s degree in library and information studies from the University of Alabama.
Her husband Brian works as market manager at Mattress Firm. The Hoopers moved here in 2010 when his company expanded to Huntsville.
