Meagan Hernandez (she/her/hers) joined Texas Digital Library staff as an Administrative Associate in December 2022.
Meet Meagan, TDL’s newest staff member
Where did you go to school?
I received my B.A. in English with a concentration in Professional Writing from UTSA.
Where is your hometown?
Schertz/San Antonio, TX
What might (someone) be surprised to know about you?
As a child, I actually wanted to be an Egyptologist, one who studies Ancient Egypt. I have always been fascinated by the mysteries of their culture and had a large collection of books covering various topics.
Meagan visits the Hall of Ancient Egypt exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
What was your first impression of Texas Digital Library?
TDL has a friendly and knowledgeable staff. It is a very collaborative environment with clear dedication to the TDL mission. I am excited to be part of this amazing team.
What has surprised you most about working with Texas Digital Library?
The number of collaborative meetings the staff participate in. It really is a team environment with TDL staff and members. Everyone is eager to get involved and explore ideas while also making sure TDL goals are on track.
Meagan’s pets, Kiwi and Nico.
What do you find most challenging about working in higher education?
There is always so much I want to do but time is limited. I absolutely love improving processes, creating documentation, and researching technology to make work more efficient. I often keep a list of potential projects and fit them in where I can. It seems there is always room for improvement, but with changing technology and a limited work day, it can be hard to keep up with everything I hope to accomplish for the team.
The interest in digital libraries / digital archives seems to be growing. Why do you think that is?
I think people are realizing the importance of having access to digital libraries and archives, especially after covid. Digital libraries expand accessibility of resources and are becoming the preferred method of research for many who continued their education through the pandemic. I think institutions are now more willing to explore digital libraries and all they have to offer in order to meet the growing demand of the community.
Meagan visits the sea turtles at the Texas State Aquarium.
Why do you enjoy what you do?
I have always wanted to support the quest for knowledge. Working in education has been a big part of my life and is incredibly fulfilling as a career. I am especially interested in libraries since they often serve as a hub for educational institutions as well as communities. I feel I can make a real impact here while continuing my own quest for knowledge.