An Interview with Breshan Bryant, Collection Services Technician

Today’s interview is with Breshan Bryant, the newest technician in the Law Library’s Collection Services Division (CSD).  We’re very happy to have her aboard.

Describe your background.

I was born in Mobile, Alabama, but grew up in Prince George’s County, Maryland. I am the best of four siblings and the proud aunt of seven nieces and nephews and one great-nephew.

What is your academic/professional history?

I attended Trinity Washington University in D.C. from 2006-2010, where I received my B.A. in English. I managed to snag a work study job at the university’s library and worked there throughout my four years. I guess you can say Trinity cultivated my passion for the library service field.

How would you describe your job to other people?

I would tell non-library folks that I ensure unbound books are sent out for binding and important documents are linked to the correct record in the library-wide system.  I only use library terminology among my peers, unless I’m trying to add a bit of razzle dazzle to the conversation.

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

I started out as a volunteer at the Library of Congress (in the Jefferson Building). It was short lived, because I got this great idea I should get paid to come here every day. I applied for a contract position that just so happened to be in the Law Library. I enjoyed the work and the people so much I remained as a contractor here for nearly seven years. A few months into year seven, I finally dusted off my resume and applied for a permanent position in CSD.

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

The actual number of books being housed here. I guess I never grasped how large our collection is, although my previous position called for me to be in the stacks almost every day.

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

I am a former sneaker collector. I owned way too many pairs, and it was getting a bit ridiculous to house them. So I eventually shrunk my collection down, and now I maintain a rotating collection of 50 pairs of sneakers.