The Fire & Passion for Life...

Creating the programs I’ve developed has been one of the most meaningful parts of my work as a librarian and educator. Each program reflects who I am: creative, compassionate, and deeply committed to learning and community. My programs, from Chronic Connections, a support group for individuals living with chronic illness, to teen-centered initiatives that inspire creativity and belonging, and my research and outreach work with correctional facilities in Maryland, all share one goal: to make the library a space where people feel valued, empowered, and seen.

When I design a program, I think about the real people it will reach: the teens searching for identity and purpose, the adults seeking community and understanding, or the incarcerated learners striving for a fresh start. My background as a teacher, writer, and career counselor helps me connect with participants personally and turn empathy into action.

Each program also gives me a chance to apply what I’ve learned in my MLIS studies using data, evaluation, and partnership-building to turn ideas into sustainable, impactful services. These experiences remind me that librarianship is not just about managing information; it’s about building bridges, creating hope, and helping others discover new possibilities for themselves.

Ultimately, every program I create deepens my sense of purpose. It’s my way of giving back, of transforming knowledge into connection, and of showing that libraries are not just buildings but living, breathing parts of the community that can and do change lives.

MLIS Projects

One of my favorite quotes

My Teen Art in the Stacks project

The Avatar Tonia Williams Project

Origami Art

  • Created Ainotville Public Library & Website -fictional library located in the fictional town of Ainotville, Maryland https://ainotvillepubliclibrary.com

  • Developed Budget and Library Policies and Procedures for Ainotville Public Library

  • Designed the Noir-Nightmares Website dedicated to films, books featuring African-American voices, writers, and actors https://noir-nightmares.net 

  • Noir Nightmares came from my love of everything horror. I have always enjoyed horror books and movies.  I created Noir Nightmares to celebrate the best of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) scary and spooky stories and movies.  These stories often highlight the monsters we see in everyday life as well as the monsters that go bump in the night.

 

  • A Year of Youth Services Programming- Highlighting programs and outreach designed for Teens and Young Adults https://a-year-of-teen-programming.com 

  • I wanted to create programming that would speak to the needs and wants of teens, from understanding their power as voters to expressing themselves with their artworks featured in the library. I wanted programs that teens and young adults would enjoy.  Often, libraries spend a lot of attention on younger library users.  Storytime and early literacy programs are always in high demand.  Even though they are older, teens and young adults still need to be engaged in the library's goings-on.  Programming is essential to help these users build a healthy relationship with the library.

  • Master's Research Paper: A Review of Literacy Programs Provided by Prison Libraries in the State of Maryland: A Document-Based Study

  • This paper has yet to be published, but I came up with the idea while reflecting on life choices.  We all make choices, and sometimes the things that happen in our lives are of our own making, and other times they are based on what happens to us.  What would I do if I ever found myself on the wrong side of the law?  What would happen if I no longer had access to two things that truly belong to a person: their free will and their education?   I wanted to share information and hope for those who are locked behind walls of steel and iron.... There is still life for you, and it begins while you learn to bloom where you are planted and earn your education.

 

  • Assisted in the creation of The Museum of Fantasy Books- https://schoolassignmentsusm.wixsite.com/my-site-1  

  • This project was one of my favorites to create. My team wanted to create a museum of some of our favorite fantasy books to help mortals understand the magical and enchanted world around them. From talking dragons to fighting orcs, people are encouraged to read and learn, but beware... fantasy is REAL

 

 

  • Ms. Tonia Five Little Monkeys Rhyme 

https://smttt-my.sharepoint.com/:v:/g/personal/w10200620_usm_edu/EUrtz_uWv-9DvNEg17Qtt5IBRnV7Frf08mXyg4zCjP2RoA

This short nursery rhyme is fun and easy to perform. Children and adults love the easy lyrics and the basic hand movement. Children need songs in their lives. I still remember all of the songs from one of my favorite Saturday morning television shows... Schoolhouse Rock. I used those songs with my own children, and I use them when I teach English to college-level students.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some of my other passions

Learning about other languages & cultures

My View on Young Adult Services in the Library

I view young adult services as one of the most vital and transformative areas of librarianship. The teen years represent a critical stage of identity development, self-expression, and discovery and libraries have the unique ability to provide both a safe space and a platform for growth. Young adult services should empower teens to explore their interests, build digital and information literacy skills, and connect with others in meaningful, creative ways.

Having designed and implemented numerous teen programs from creative writing workshops to themed cultural and STEM events I’ve seen how engagement flourishes when programs are participatory, relevant, and youth-driven. Teens respond best when they have a voice in planning and see their perspectives reflected in the library’s collections, displays, and activities. I believe in approaching YA services through a collaborative, equity-minded lens, ensuring that all teens regardless of background, ability, or circumstance see the library as a welcoming, judgment-free environment.

In an age of constant digital stimulation and social pressure, the library can offer something rare: authentic connection. Through mentorship, literacy development, and inclusive programming, librarians can help teens cultivate curiosity, confidence, and a sense of belonging. My approach centers on listening to teen voices, integrating technology responsibly, and creating programs that blend education with creativity and fun.

Ultimately, I view young adult services not just as entertainment or outreach, but as a form of youth empowerment and lifelong learning. Libraries have the power to help teens recognize their potential and that, to me, is one of the most meaningful responsibilities of our profession.

Food..

Food Glorious Food... 

Community Initiatives

Our community is more than the people on our street... its the people of our world

Get Involved

Be part of the change you want to see in the world. Together, we can create better lives for youth and young adults. Discover how you can contribute to these impactful projects.