This week’s interview is with Alex LoBianco, a Public Services Assistant in the Law Library Reading Room.
Describe your background.
I was born and raised in Washington, DC, with my immediate family and maternal grandparents living nearby. My parents and grandparents were Italian immigrants so we spoke Italian at home and English outside.
What is your academic/professional history?
I attended Bishop McNamara High School in Forestville, MD, and graduated in 1981. I studied at the University of Maryland, College Park and later transferred to the University of the District of Columbia to complete a B.S. in Psychology.
I have worked at the General Services Administration, National Science Foundation, and for the last 20 years at the Law Library of Congress.
How would you describe your job to other people?
I work with two other excellent library technicians, all with many duties. At the reference desk, I assist the librarians by answering patrons’ general questions, processing requests and assisting in minor computer-related issues. In the Microform Reading Room, I assist patrons by processing microform requests, demonstrating microform equipment usage, and resolving equipment issues as well as orienting new staff members. In collection development, I add new books to our collection and shelf-read to keep them in order.
Why did you want to work at the Library of Congress?
I wanted to work in the Law Library because I enjoy helping people find the law.
What is the most interesting fact you’ve learned about the Law Library?
I discovered that we have reproductions of famous court cases like Amistad in microform as well as reproductions of manuscripts containing George Washington’s signature.
What’s something most of your co-workers do not know about you?
My name is Alexander, which I rarely use, but at home my nickname is Sandro. When I was a young man, I studied and learned to read music and played the piano. I also learned to play harmonica by ear. I am a catechist at Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church in Washington, DC. Last week my class of 15 students was confirmed. The class included members of the international community, federal employees, and active duty military personnel.
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