My Journey into Librarianship: Embracing Media, Community, and Discovery at MLC

Hi, I’m McKenzie Haggard, a recent graduate of Belhaven University, and currently serving as the Social Media Coordinator for MLC. Coming from a creative background, I’ve always known that I wanted to pursue a career in media. Whether it was writing, content creation, or social media management, I felt a strong pull toward the world of communication and storytelling. After graduating, I was eager to dive into my career and find a role that would help me hone my skills and bring my passions to life. That’s when I stumbled upon MLC.

 

I started in August, just as the holiday season was approaching—a particularly busy and exciting time for libraries. Looking back, I had no idea what to expect when I stepped into the world of librarianship. I never imagined myself working in a library, much less as a social media coordinator, but it’s been such an eye-opening experience so far.

When I first joined MLC, I quickly realized that libraries do so much more than I ever gave them credit for. Growing up, I always thought of libraries as places for kids to read books or do homework. I wasn’t aware of the vast range of services they offer to adults and the community as a whole. The more I’ve learned, the more I’ve come to appreciate how libraries are essential hubs for creativity, personal growth, and community engagement.

One of the most surprising things I discovered was how libraries serve people beyond the classroom. I thought libraries were primarily geared toward children and school-related activities, but I’ve seen firsthand how they offer an incredible array of programs for adults as well. From crafting and baking workshops to personal development seminars and even support groups, libraries provide free opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. It’s been so exciting to see how these services cater to all ages and interests, and it’s given me a deeper sense of pride in what libraries truly offer.

As the Social Media Coordinator for MLC, my role has been all about learning how to effectively communicate these offerings to the community. The holiday season has been a great time to join MLC, as I’ve had the chance to experience the energy and excitement that comes with the events, projects, and services offered at this time of year. It’s inspiring to see the library come to life with various activities, whether it’s a holiday craft workshop, a seasonal cooking class, or a community event that brings people together. There’s something so special about how libraries create spaces where people of all backgrounds can gather and learn something new, and I feel lucky to be a part of that.

Over the past few months, my passion for libraries has only deepened. I’ve discovered that libraries are not just quiet places for reading—they are community centers that provide essential resources, foster creativity, and promote lifelong learning. Supporting libraries has become a cause that I truly care about, and it’s been incredibly fulfilling to see how MLC positively impacts people’s lives every day.
I’m looking forward to continuing my journey at MLC, sharing these amazing resources with the world, and helping people discover just how much libraries have to offer. From digital media to hands-on programs, I’m excited to be a part of a team that’s helping to bridge the gap between libraries and the communities they serve.

McKenzie Haggard
Social Media Coordinator