Exploring Aaron Kimbrell’s Dynamic Role at Cline Library

On April 16, National Librarians Day is celebrated, shedding light on the invaluable role of librarians. The NAU Review recently engaged in a conversation with Aaron Kimbrell, the assistant librarian for experiential learning at Cline Library, to explore his unique approach to library science and his diverse interests.

Journey to Northern Arizona University

Aaron Kimbrell attributes his arrival at Northern Arizona University (NAU) to a stroke of good fortune. Previously, Kimbrell initiated a creative, Makerspace-like service at a library in California, which piqued his interest in various learning methods. This interest led him to pursue a doctoral degree in learning design at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His love for northern Arizona, coupled with a timely job opening at Cline Library, led him to his current role, which he describes as a joy.

A Day in the Life of a Librarian

According to Kimbrell, no two days are alike in his role at the library. The essence of library work is service-oriented, where the team focuses on facilitating access for students and staff, whether it involves booking study rooms or tackling intricate design challenges with equipment like laser cutters. Daily responsibilities include ensuring library spaces are functional and aligning the MakerLab’s activities with students’ interests, the Flagstaff community, and academic values.

Discovering a Passion for Library Science

Kimbrell credits his interest in library science to his lifelong passion for learning outside traditional classrooms. His self-initiated studies in film photography and guitar, alongside encouragement from a friend in the library field, led him to pursue a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program. His enthusiasm for the field has grown ever since.

Cline Library’s Mysteries

Having been at Cline Library for only eight months, Kimbrell jokes about being privy to the library’s secrets after a year. He humorously notes, “All librarians know that every library is haunted—especially the elevators.”

Formative Childhood Experiences

Growing up in Virginia, Kimbrell attended community center art classes, particularly enjoying cartooning during the summers. These experiences were fun, enlightening, and fostered a sense of collaborative learning, which Kimbrell seeks to recreate in his current work environments.

Childhood Aspirations and Current Interests

Kimbrell once dreamed of hosting a game show for animals, primarily cats. Today, when not working on his dissertation, he enjoys spending time outdoors with his partner, Ari. They explore new hiking and biking trails in the picturesque surroundings of northern Arizona, finding it an ideal way to reconnect with nature.