Erin Rinto
Undergraduate Learning Librarian and Assistant Professor
UNLV Libraries
As she finished her undergraduate studies in history, it dawned on Erin Rinto that she wasn't ready for the Ph.D. route. But she still wanted to be part of student learning at a university. A little research led to a new career path as a university librarian. "Looking back, I'm grateful that I took a chance on a field that I had never really considered before my senior year of college," she said.
In addition to working with the English composition program, she will support the new general education initiatives by helping instructors integrate information literacy into all stages of the undergraduate curriculum. And she'll work with students as they use the libraries' many resources to enhance their papers.
Why UNLV? I wanted a job where I could really contribute to educational initiatives across campus. I also wanted to begin my career as a librarian surrounded by the very best people: Patty Iannuzzi, the dean of Libraries, is one of the most influential individuals in my field, and the vision she has for the library is incredibly impressive. But even better, everyone here is doing really exciting and meaningful work that they care about. That's the kind of work environment I wanted.
What do you find as the most interesting thing about your field? That it's so dynamic. My idea of librarianship has changed even in the few years between when I started graduate school and now. The field has to be flexible, creative, and willing to take on increasing responsibilities at academic institutions. I find that challenge and the way librarians respond to it to be incredibly interesting.
What is the biggest misconception about your field? My family and friends know I'm a librarian but they really have no clue what I do every day. So many people seem to think I stand behind a card catalog all day and tell people to be quiet. They are always so surprised when I tell them I'm involved with things like instruction and curriculum design.
Who was your favorite professor and why? When I was an undergraduate at Wittenberg University, I was fortunate to have myriad professors in the history department who all really shaped who I am as an educator and scholar. They were willing to take a great deal of chance on me: I was allowed to teach my peers as a supplemental instructor, to travel to Egypt on a grant, to write a major piece of original research, and most importantly, to challenge my assumptions of what I thought I knew about myself and what I wanted for my future in a supportive environment. I know for certain I wouldn't be where I am today without their encouragement.
What is your proudest moment? When I finished my first half marathon. Up until that point, I had always focused only on attaining my professional and educational goals. That was my first experience with challenging myself physically. It felt really good to push myself in a new way.
What would people be surprised to know about you? That when I was sixteen, it took me five tries to get my driver's license! I wish I was kidding.
Can't work without? Pandora (internet radio) on in the background.
What gadget could you not live without? My cell phone! Many of my closest friends and family are all back in Ohio. Texting with them is a necessity!
If you could fix one thing in the world what would it be? I would want to see an increase in tolerance and a willingness to have an open mind about differences.
One tip to succeed? You have to be ready to admit to yourself what it is you want and what it will take to get there.
Favorite spot on campus so far? I like that grassy area outside the Engineering Complex. I have to get outside every day, at least for a little while!
Who is your hero? My parents. I've been saying that since I was five years old, but I mean it more with every passing year. I don't know how they do everything they do!
