Claudia Villarreal Quiroz serves as the Reference Supervisor at the McAllen Public Library. Her path into librarianship began with a single, clarifying question from an academic advisor: where could she be content working a full day? Naming the library instantly revealed a deeper aim — to use library services and programs to improve lives in her community. Since then, her work has balanced direct patron support with event planning and outreach.
Her professional philosophy centers on joyful, purposeful service. Rather than focusing only on specific skills, she emphasizes choosing environments that energize you. In Claudia’s case, that meant creating opportunities for learning and connection through programs like computer literacy classes, book clubs, job fairs, and targeted community events.
Community programs that connect and uplift
The McAllen Public Library has built a program portfolio designed to meet diverse needs. Regular offerings include Job Fairs that link jobseekers to employers, cultural observances such as Dia de los Niños, and seasonal gatherings like the Back-to-School Bash. Public health is addressed through a Community Health Fair, and global perspectives are celebrated at the World Cultures Festival. The library also hosts the annual South Texas Book Festival, a flagship event that brings authors, readers, and publishers together.
One innovative youth initiative is the Art Pathways Contest, open to children and teens ages five to eighteen. Participants read a chosen book, then paint a favorite scene on canvas while incorporating the library mascot, Marty the Library Cat. The finished pieces are exhibited in the Main Branch gallery; the most recent display attracted roughly 500 entries, demonstrating strong engagement across age groups.
Influences, current reading and literary dinner guests
Claudia names three authors she would invite to dinner because each influenced her in a different way. Dan Brown sparked a love of puzzling narratives and historical symbolism, offering an entry point to varied genres. John Maxwell, particularly through The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth, reshaped her leadership outlook and helped structure professional development plans. For practical skills outside the library, Ina Garten provided accessible recipes that inspired her culinary confidence.
Her bedside stack reflects those influences: she is reading Strong Ground by Brené Brown, revisiting The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown, and re-reading Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles. These selections show a blend of leadership, narrative curiosity, and philosophy about living well.
Professional development and association involvement
Being selected to serve on CPC 2026 with the Texas Library Association was a career milestone for Claudia. Participation in conference planning provided behind-the-scenes insight into curating sessions, speaker selection, and attendee experience. She describes the role as affirming and educational, allowing her to learn from colleagues while contributing to a major statewide professional event.
Advice for new librarians and practical resources
To those beginning in the field, Claudia recommends learning the inner workings of your institution. Understanding facilities and procedures builds confidence and effectiveness. She also points to several formal resources: the RUSA Guidelines for Behavioral Performance of Reference and Information Service Providers, the library’s own Crew Manual, ALA’s Core Competences of Librarianship, and the training available through WebJunction webinars. These materials offer frameworks for reference interactions, core skills, operational norms, and ongoing learning.
Her counsel blends concrete steps and a broader attitude: be curious, use available guidelines, and observe experienced staff. Those habits accelerate growth and improve service to patrons.
Personal interests beyond the desk
Outside of work, Claudia channels creativity and inquiry into several hobbies. She enjoys designing Christmas trees with unique themes, engaging in mathematical puzzles, and tracing family histories through genealogy research. These pursuits mirror her professional values — imagination, analysis, and connection to personal stories.
When asked why she remains active in professional associations, Claudia finishes the sentence simply: “I am a TLA member because I want to learn from other library professionals, build relationships and stay current with library practices.” That sentiment underlines a career built on community, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
