Naomi Bishop
Research Librarian, Ventana Medical Systems, Tucson, AZ
What do you do?
I’m a solo research librarian at an international company that manufactures instruments for cancer diagnostics. I provide research support, online literature searches, and instruction to support company information needs. My main customers are scientists, engineers, and pathologists, but I support all areas of the company including research & development, sales & marketing, and manufacturing. Some of my most popular services are targeted literature searches, reference requests, and weekly literature updates. I also assist with post-market surveillance for existing products. Ninety-eight percent of our library collection is electronic, but I still have a few bookshelves.
What brought you to AILA?
I volunteered to be a part of AILA while I was a student at the University of Washington. I was the only Native student in the MLIS program in Washington, so I joined AILA to meet other Native librarians and archivists.
What other interests do you have?
Sports! I’m a huge Arizona Wildcat fan . Basketball and Baseball are my favorite sports to watch. I also love children’s and youth literature. I’m a member of the AILA Youth Literature Awards Committee and love finding great books to read. I also enjoy walking with my Great Dane, Blue!
Is there a resource or project you’d like to alert us to?
Yes, I think everyone should be aware of the Resources list on the AILA website. These resources are for everyone and there is so much good stuff on the list.
Why is AILA important to you?
AILA is important to me because it encourages me to stay involved and work for change in the field. My mother always took us to the library when I was a child, and I want to make sure that libraries are relevant, fun, engaging, and accessible for the next generation. I especially want to see more fiction and picture books from Native authors and illustrators. I stopped reading in junior high and didn’t get back to reading until graduate school. I appreciate AILA being there for me and helping me to grow and help other librarians.