You know that person in your life, family or friend, who can somehow always calm things down and put a positive spin on the world?  That person is so important, and perhaps even more vital in a work environment.  For the Washington Talking Book & Braille Library (WTBBL), that person is Amy Ravenholt.  Amy joined WTBBL as our Assistant Program Manager in July 2008 and oversees the reader’s services, shipping, audio book production, braille, and radio reading service departments.  She is a true asset to WTBBL and contributes not only to our productivity, but to all our activities, helping plan events, do outreach visits, and keep all of us grounded.

Prior to joining WTBBL, Amy worked twenty-four years in the Yakima regional library system. Her last position there was overseeing the Sunnyside Library Branch. We know we managed quite a coup hiring Amy, and people across the state are always asking us to say “hi” to her and to tell her that they miss her. She is a graduate of the University of Washington Graduate School of Library and Information Science (now the iSchool), enjoys dancing, remodeling, and cooking (including super treats for our potlucks!).

Tyler, our Patron Registrar, describes Amy as, amidst a staff of strong personalities, “always able to smooth over any rough edges and help us work together.” Calmness is a natural part of her personality, and a true benefit to library staff, volunteers, and patrons. David, WTBBL Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator, also praises Amy’s finesse working with different personalities and stakeholders while keeping many plates spinning.

Wes, a Reader’s Advisor, points out her sense of humor and says, “she seems to be the eternal optimist.” Amy is also our Keystone Library Automation System (KLAS) administrator. Working with specialized and quirky databases certainly can require optimism and Amy brings it. She has developed a complex understanding of the many modules and most importantly, she can articulately and elegantly work with the vendor to ensure we are getting the data and performance we need from the system. Amy is a master with details and patience. Rocio, WTBBL Receptionist, appreciates Amy’s knack for teaching others and giving excellent instructions.

All of us have grown to count on Amy to be the calm at the center of the storm. Theresa, Audio Book Production Supervisor, cites Amy’s ability to “stand firm and calm” and to “do her very best to be fair to everyone.” Danielle Miller, Manager of WTBBL says, “I for one can’t think of anyone with whom I would rather share the responsibility of running our unique service. I hope that Amy is part of the WTBBL team and family for many years to come; we need her and we admire her!”