An Interview with Mirela Savic-Fleming, Special Assistant to the Law Librarian of Congress

Describe your background

I was born in Split, Croatia, but I spent most of my early years in Banja Luka and Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina.  I have also lived and worked in Pristina (Kosovo), Zagreb (Croatia), Islamabad (Pakistan), and Washington, D.C.  My family and I moved so often that one of the hardest things for me is to describe my background.  My husband and I recently moved back to D.C. and now I consider myself a “Washingtonian” with family ties to Virginia and the Balkans.

What is your academic/professional history?

I have a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in literature, which has always been my passion.  I’ve had a varied professional history.  I have worked as a protocol officer and chief of presidential protocol in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a United Nations Development Program (UNDP) capacity development facility advisor in Kosovo, a consultant for Creative Associates International in Washington, DC, and most recently as a member of the U.S. Department of State management teams in two of our embassies overseas (in Croatia and Pakistan).  I also obtained certificates in business administration, working group meetings, and accountability and transparency in business and government.

How would you describe your job to other people?

Interesting and exciting.  As the special assistant to the Law Librarian of Congress, I provide full technical, administrative and program assistance to the Law Librarian. I draft/write reports, analytical studies, correspondence and memoranda, and research and work on different projects.

But by far, the most fascinating part of my work is to be able to work with many experienced professionals with skills so advanced in their respective fields that I consider myself truly lucky to be here.  

Why did you want to work at the Law Library of Congress?

I have been a bookworm all my life, the old-fashioned one with a love for printed books, and never-used gift certificate for an e-reader.  When I saw the advertisement for this position, I realized that it would be that perfect opportunity where I can combine my passion for literature, my professional experience, and administrative skills with something new and challenging – law.  I love discovering new areas of interest, working on enriching my professional portfolio and improving my skill set.

What is the most interesting fact you have learned about the Law Library? 

More than half of the Law Library’s print collection is in languages other than English.  Also, that the Library of Congress has one of the world’s premier collections of U.S. and foreign genealogical and local historical publications.

What is something most of your co-workers do not know about you?

I am an avid kick-boxer who loves baking (pretzels and pies in particular)—I had to find a workout energetic enough to balance my love (read “appetite”) for baked goods. Also, my husband and I collect old maps and old… everything.  Our house looks little bit like a cozy museum.