Please give a warm welcome to our new Systems Librarian at CSN, Christopher Skipper. He has kindly answered a few questions so that we can get to know him a bit better!
Tell us about your past experiences with libraries and what brought you to this new role at CSN?
I have over 10 years of library experience and I have worked K-12, Public, Academic, and most recently a joint-use public/academic library. I also have done some work with managing digital archives. I came to CSN for many reasons. I lived on the east coast my entire life and I wanted a change of scenery. I started at a community college, and it allowed me the space to grow and discover my own interests, without financial stress bogging me down. CSN for me is a place to grow and to give back to the students and I am excited to bring my areas of expertise to the library and the college.
What’s something about your job that students might not know or realize?
The library catalog and website don’t maintain themselves! Lots of technology and people behind the scenes that contribute to improving and maintaining library services.
What are you most looking forward to experiencing here in Las Vegas?
I enjoy trying new foods and Vegas has no shortage of restaurants for me to try. My favorite food is Chile Rellenos and they seem to be everywhere out here!
What are some of your hobbies and/or interests outside of CSN?
Outside of work, I play a lot of video games. I also enjoying hunting for antiques. I have a small collection of old coins and books from the 1800s.
What do you feel is your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
My biggest personal/professional accomplishment is probably the fact that I never paid a penny for any of my college education. Community college gave me more scholarship and grant opportunities than if I had started at a 4-year institution. The scholarships exceeded my cost of attendance, and I was even able to finish my Master’s degree without any debt.