Meet Michele Willman

NDVS/SB Vision Resource Center Specialist

Michele Willman only started working in the Vision Resource Center at NDVS/SB in mid-May, but when you meet her, you may think she's been a librarian her entire life. Since she's started, she's made many improvements to the library, from setting up attractive new displays to cleaning up online library records that will make her colleagues' and patrons' lives easier. Michele, who had spent most of her career working in higher ed, is a natural fit in this position. "I had been interested in shifting from teaching to library for awhile and had been browsing job boards looking for library positions that I was qualified for," she said. "I happened across the job ad for the VRC Specialist and I'm so glad the stars aligned like they did." Her colleagues at NDVS/SB are glad too! Read on to learn more about Michele.

Tell us about your background.
I grew up in West Fargo, ND, and lived mostly in Fargo until I moved to Grand Forks. I got my undergraduate degree in English and French from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN. Then, I studied English in graduate school at North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota.

What other jobs have you held?
I love to read and write, so it's probably no surprise that I spent 20 years teaching composition, business writing, and literature in higher education. My favorite courses to teach were Women's Literature, Mythology, and Environmental Writing. Before that, I worked for a mapping company where I was able to travel quite a bit both in the U.S. and abroad. However, I started my career at the Dairy Queen, and I can still make a pretty good swirl.

What is your role at NDVS/SB?
I am the Vision Resource Center Specialist at NDVS/SB. In other words, I work in the library surrounded by books and being visited by great people which is the best place to be.

What do you think of your new job so far?
I love it. I have enjoyed getting to know all of my new co-workers and getting acquainted with the Vision Resource Center and all of its materials. I am learning a lot every day. I am excited to connect people with resources. I really like to see our materials in the hands of people who can benefit from them.

What is a typical day like for you?
I have a lot of variety from day-to-day. When I arrive, I typically check my desk and email to see if anything has arrived for me to check-in, catalog, or ship. When that is complete, I work on a project, take care of the Sensory Education Library, or help with APH or wherever else I am needed.

Is there anything you think people would be surprised to know or learn about NDVS/SB?

I think people would be surprised to know that we serve visually impaired North Dakotans of all ages. We are not just a school for kids, but for everyone who needs us.

Tell us about your life outside of work.
When I'm not at work, I am usually with my family or doing hobbies. I have four kids (teens and pre-teens), my spouse, and two chihuahuas at home (Uggie and Radar) that keep me busy. I read a lot, write fiction and non-fiction, do fiber arts (crochet, knit, spin), and walk my pups. I love to travel, camp, and hike, so summer is the best season for me! Fun fact: I am learning Swedish, so when I'm done with work, I still have classes and homework to do.

Is there anything else you want people to know?
I am very happy to be part of NDVS/SB and am looking forward to being here for a long time.

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