As I explore a future in librarianship, one thing is clear: I would not be where I am now without Legos. On a summer night in 2014, I responded to a last-minute call for volunteers from my local public library. The next morning, I served as a teen volunteer for a Lego-themed children’s program. I chatted with a library assistant throughout the event, and we arrived at the fateful question while cleaning, scooping up plastic blocks by the handful: Was I looking for a job? As it turned out, the Children’s Department was hiring student pages. I walked out of the library that day with the application, and in a few short weeks I worked my first shift at the best job I could have ever hoped for.

When I say that I am applying to graduate schools to become a public librarian, I get one of two responses: either, “You have to get a degree for that?” or worse, “Really? You could do so much more.” In those moments, it is clearer than ever to me that libraries and librarians are under-valued in our society. I often wish I could show those people how much libraries mean to me. But more than that, I wish I could help them see how much libraries mean to them, whether they realize it or not. for me, librarianship is fundamentally about connection. The work connects people to knowledge, knowledge to people, knowledge to knowledge, and ultimately, people to people. This principle forms the cornerstone of my personal philosophy, both within and outside of library contexts. It feels appropriate, then, that Legos have served as a connective force for me.

As an information professional, I aspire to make libraries an increasingly salient, vital force in people’s lives. I am especially passionate about the ongoing diversification of librarianship as a field. My undergraduate work with Miami University’s Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion and my own queer, nonbinary identity have taught me firsthand the value of representing and celebrating the spectrum of perspectives and stories in our world. Further, I am eager to harness my passions for digital humanities and intellectual freedom in a public library context, both by exploring new media preservation and by navigating emerging complexities in libraries’ social and political roles.

In pursuing my Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS), I am eager to expand my academic and professional networks and to engage in practical application of my skills. An online program offers exactly those opportunities, and also allows me to continue my education while accepting a new position at my local library—for my sixth year in their employ—which will offer me increased responsibilities and resources. Further, a graduate program’s avenues for professional field experience provide an exciting means of exploring and applying the knowledge I gain through my coursework. I know that my initiative, enthusiasm, and dedication will be valuable assets in an MLIS program, and I am eager to contribute my academic and personal passions to the field. Above all, I strive to create and foster connection in the world around me&mdas;whether between shelves, across screens, or over another pile of Legos.