{"@context":"http://iiif.io/api/presentation/3/context.json","id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/iiif/0r9m32px04/manifest","type":"Manifest","label":{"en":["Oksana Kondrashova Oral History"]},"logo":"https://d9jk7wjtjpu5g.cloudfront.net/organizations/logo_images/000/000/010/original/Aviary_QPLlogo_192x192.png?1578574261","metadata":[{"label":{"en":["Description"]},"value":{"en":["\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSummary of Full Interview\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOksana Kondrashova serves as Assistant Manager of the Children's Library Discovery Center (CLDC) at Queens Public Library. Located at Central Library in Jamaica, CLDC offers hands-on interactive exhibits and learning labs to enable children ages 3-12 to find information and to inspire interest in books, reading, and learning. Kondrashova, who is originally from Ukraine and moved to the United States at the age of 28, speaks with interviewer Kaitlyn Normoyle about visiting libraries and bookstores as a child in Ukraine, her professional background as a teacher in Ukraine, and deciding to pursue a career in librarianship in the United States.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eKondrashova began working at Queens Public Library in 2015 as a children's librarian in Flushing; she recalls immediately having a positive impression of Queens Public Library during her job interview and feeling comfortable while working in Flushing because she was surrounded by people who were similar to herself: immigrants who spoke with foreign accents. Kondrashova discusses her subsequent roles as Assistant Manager at Queens Public Library's Hillcrest, Glen Oaks, and CLDC locations. Kondrashova shares stories of how she has been able to assist co-workers and library customers (both children and adults) over the years. Kondrashova also explains how Queens Public Library has changed since 2015, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and an influx of migrants crossing the U.S. southern border and arriving in Queens, while continuing to provide free access to resources in service to Queens' diverse population.\u003c/p\u003e"]}},{"label":{"en":["Rights Statement"]},"value":{"en":["\u003cp\u003eCC BY-NC-SA Contact digitalarchives@queenslibrary.org for research and reproduction requests.\u003c/p\u003e"]}},{"label":{"en":["Source Metadata URI"]},"value":{"en":["http://digitalarchives.queenslibrary.org/search/browse/43761"]}},{"label":{"en":["Date"]},"value":{"en":["2024-10-07 (created)"]}},{"label":{"en":["Type"]},"value":{"en":["Video"]}},{"label":{"en":["Agent"]},"value":{"en":["Oksana Kondrashova (Interviewee)","Kaitlyn Normoyle (Interviewer)"]}},{"label":{"en":["Source"]},"value":{"en":["Recorded as part of Professor Kristin Szylvian's Fall 2024 history and library and information science class on oral history at St. John's University."]}},{"label":{"en":["Coverage"]},"value":{"en":["1970s-2024 (temporal)","Jamaica, Flushing, Glen Oaks, and Hillcrest, Queens, NY; Ukraine (spatial)"]}},{"label":{"en":["Language"]},"value":{"en":["English"]}}],"summary":{"en":["\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSummary of Full Interview\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eOksana Kondrashova serves as Assistant Manager of the Children's Library Discovery Center (CLDC) at Queens Public Library. Located at Central Library in Jamaica, CLDC offers hands-on interactive exhibits and learning labs to enable children ages 3-12 to find information and to inspire interest in books, reading, and learning. Kondrashova, who is originally from Ukraine and moved to the United States at the age of 28, speaks with interviewer Kaitlyn Normoyle about visiting libraries and bookstores as a child in Ukraine, her professional background as a teacher in Ukraine, and deciding to pursue a career in librarianship in the United States.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eKondrashova began working at Queens Public Library in 2015 as a children's librarian in Flushing; she recalls immediately having a positive impression of Queens Public Library during her job interview and feeling comfortable while working in Flushing because she was surrounded by people who were similar to herself: immigrants who spoke with foreign accents. Kondrashova discusses her subsequent roles as Assistant Manager at Queens Public Library's Hillcrest, Glen Oaks, and CLDC locations. Kondrashova shares stories of how she has been able to assist co-workers and library customers (both children and adults) over the years. Kondrashova also explains how Queens Public Library has changed since 2015, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and an influx of migrants crossing the U.S. southern border and arriving in Queens, while continuing to provide free access to resources in service to Queens' diverse population.\u003c/p\u003e"]},"requiredStatement":{"label":{"en":["Attribution"]},"value":{"en":["\u003cp\u003eCC BY-NC-SA Contact digitalarchives@queenslibrary.org for research and reproduction requests.\u003c/p\u003e"]}},"provider":[{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/aboutus","type":"Agent","label":{"en":["Queens Public Library"]},"homepage":[{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/","type":"Text","label":{"en":["Queens Public Library"]},"format":"text/html"}],"logo":[{"id":"https://d9jk7wjtjpu5g.cloudfront.net/organizations/logo_images/000/000/010/original/Aviary_QPLlogo_192x192.png?1578574261","type":"Image"}]}],"thumbnail":[{"id":"https://d9jk7wjtjpu5g.cloudfront.net/collection_resource_files/thumbnails/000/273/221/small/thumbnail_273221_1747685023.jpg?1747685077","type":"Image","format":"image/jpeg"}],"items":[{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221","type":"Canvas","label":{"en":["Media File 1 of 1 - kondrashova_oksana_20241007_edit.mp4"]},"duration":1879.86667,"width":640,"height":360,"thumbnail":[{"id":"https://d9jk7wjtjpu5g.cloudfront.net/collection_resource_files/thumbnails/000/273/221/small/thumbnail_273221_1747685023.jpg?1747685077","type":"Image","format":"image/jpeg"}],"items":[{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/content/1","type":"AnnotationPage","items":[{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/content/1/annotation/1","type":"Annotation","motivation":"painting","body":{"id":"https://aviary-p-queenslibrary.s3.wasabisys.com/collection_resource_files/resource_files/000/273/221/original/kondrashova_oksana_20241007_edit.mp4?1747679884","type":"Video","format":"video/mp4","duration":1879.86667,"width":640,"height":360},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221","metadata":[]}]}],"annotations":[{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043","type":"AnnotationPage","label":{"en":["Full Transcript [Transcript]"]},"items":[{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/1","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e All right. My name is Kaitlyn Normoyle. I am interviewing Oksana Kondrashova on October 7th, 2024. By making this recording, we both consent to the use of our names, voices, images, and likeness by the Queens Public Library understanding that this recording will be the property of the library and will be used in connection with the promotion and marketing of the library, its programs and services. It will not be sold by the library in any way. We understand that we will not receive compensation and agree to hold the library harmless from any claim arising from use of this interview and recording. So, Oksana, if you could please introduce yourself.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=4.0,44.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/2","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Good morning. My name is Oksana Kondrashova. I work as Assistant Manager in Children's Library Discovery Center in the Central Library.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=44.0,61.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/3","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Wonderful. So, can you tell us a little bit about your personal history with libraries? So, when you were growing up, did you visit libraries and how old were you when you started interacting with libraries?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=61.0,72.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/4","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e I've been connected to libraries since my very early childhood. I was born in Ukraine, and of course, libraries over there not resemble libraries in the United States in terms of they are not actually a community centers as it used to be. I'm talking about years years back. And again, when I was very young and little, my mom was a very good reader. She would read, finish book overnight. She always was in need of new books and supplies to stay to read. And she, of course, always took me to the library with her. I love to walk around shelves and look at those big and important books. That's what I thought.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=72.0,129.32938"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/5","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Also, my again being a—loving reading, my mom always took me to the bookstores as well. And that the smell of freshly printed books, always stays with me. And I always feel a lot of excitement when I come to the store book or where I come to the library. It's just always some type of discovery. I guess it started with a childhood that you go to places and you know you will discover something. You will see something. You will learn about something, and it stayed with me.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=129.32938,174.19585"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/6","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e And also, opening those books and looking at the print. Even at the time I couldn't read, I guess it started from those moments. And as well, seeing my parents always reading in the evening, long evenings, especially in winter time. The TV didn't have too many programs and I would see my parents both reading. And after playing with dolls for a while, I would turn my attention to books where I could turn pages and see pictures, at the beginning, books for children. And then eventually, when I started to read, I—so my mom would take me to the library to pick up some books or eventually I was able to go myself. So, I have the memories from the earliest earliest age since I was able to remember myself.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=174.19585,240.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/7","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e So, did you grow up wanting to work in libraries or be a librarian, or was that something that came about a little bit later in life?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=240.0,246.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/8","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e It did come up later in my life, and actually it happened since I moved to the United States. Back in Ukraine, I was a teacher. I worked as a teacher and due to certain circumstances, my personal life, I moved to United States. And I at that time, I was 28 years old. And I realized that in new country, first of all, I would have to learn the language. And second, I knew that I would like to do something similar as teaching, but not exactly.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=246.0,296.43275"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/9","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e I tried a few different careers going into trying to be a computer programmer and working in a computer consulting program. But then I realized that actually my love of working with people, especially with children, it still stays with me and deeply embedded. And I pursue a career of teacher librarian. And eventually I end up working in a public library, which I absolutely love, love, love, love. So, it came up later in my life, and I'm extremely happy about that.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=296.43275,344.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/10","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e So, when you were transitioning into working in libraries, did you have to go back to school? Did you have to get more education? Or was this just kind of a thing that you kind of worked your way into?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=344.0,354.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/11","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e No, no, no. I did have to get my second master's degree that I completed here in United States. I went to C.W. Post [LIU Post at Long Island University] and I was able while I was working at school, a local school, l was able to take my classes and complete my degree within one year. So, just couldn't wait to be a librarian.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=354.0,386.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/12","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e That's incredible. So, after you finished your master's, that's when you started working at QPL [Queens Public Library], and was it the same location you're at now or was it a different location?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=386.0,397.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/13","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e No. Actually, I started to work as a librarian, children's librarian and adult librarian. I had two part time jobs on Long Island. And then, I heard about openings at QPL, and Brentwood. I am sorry; Brooklyn Libraries [Brooklyn Public Library] have some openings. QPL had some openings, but I decided to go for interview with QPL and realize the interviewing staff show a lot of interest to me as a person, as a future librarian. And also there was an interest in what's happening, how the programs are going. So, I wanted to work for the library where from top to bottom, people were interested in patrons and programs and services that will be provided. And that's why they pay extra attention to people that they were hiring.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=397.0,473.22727"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/14","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e So, I loved—I would say like it was love from the first sight. And of course, when I started and I came to my first job, I was hired to work in Flushing. It was my first job with QPL as Children's Librarian. And I can tell you it went beyond my expectations. That's when and where I realized my accent that I carry as a person who came from Ukraine, it was just absolutely normal because everybody spoke with accent. I felt like I found my place. That's where I should be.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=473.22727,528.18182"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/15","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e And helping other people with similar experience like immigrants and immigration issues, questions. Like, if you’re professional and you come to this country, what do you do with your degree? Where do you go to translate your documents? Where you learn English? What and how you help your kids when your language is not on the same level that the homework that the teachers ask to do? And I had the answers because I went through all these things. I went through participating in a lottery so to be accepted into classes in the library. I went through translating my paperwork, looking for colleges where I can be accepted. And even tips, “How will you learn English?” Get some lyrics and try to sing those songs that you like in English and read children's books. That’s true. Reading children's books in English helped me to start with my learning English.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=528.18182,618.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/16","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Wow. That's amazing. So, is that the only other job you've held in QPL or what has your journey been with QPL from being a children's librarian to where you are now?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=618.0,628.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/17","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e From being a Children's Librarian in Flushing, then I got promoted and I was working as Assistant Manager in Hillcrest Community Library. After that, I moved to Glen Oaks Library where I continued being Assistant Manager just with a little bigger spectrum of responsibilities. And then I have my recent job is Assistant Manager in CLDC, Discovery or CLDC which is Children's Library Discovery Center. So, I actually after like a few rounds of working more with adults and children and both that was my responsibilities.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=628.0,691.52613"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/18","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Now, my later position involves completely working in a children's library settings with children's librarians. Basically, I came back to my roots working again with children, which is absolutely happy, happy moments and times for me. Also, I enjoy all of my—each place, job, and positions I enjoy a lot, because every place give me some new perspectives or responsibilities, but at the same time ability to apply my either creativity or my desire to help and serve to other people. And provide them with whatever information they needed.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=691.52613,757.26829"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/19","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e For example, working in Glen Oaks Library I have opportunity to do outreach into nursing homes to help people with different programs for people and with people that maybe have a limited access to I would say mostly [pauses] [crosstalk] secluded and resources there. They don't have such an active life. And it was absolutely rewarding to see the joy. We would discuss any program. I mean, discuss any literature or, we did some poetry programs and seeing these people light in their eyes and maybe not remembering what they have for breakfast, but reciting Shakespeare. It’s amazing. It's amazing. It's really touching moments that I appreciate and always carry with me.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=757.26829,840.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/20","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Yeah, absolutely. Can you tell me how long you've worked for the Queens Public Library? Like what year you started?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=840.0,846.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/21","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e I started in June 2015.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=846.0,852.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/22","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Wow.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=852.0,852.5"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/23","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Yes. So, next year will be ten years mark of working in QPL and it went so fast. I remember when I started, I was looking at other people with such respect, “Oh my God! They have five years in this place.” “These people have ten years, and I’m just starting.” Like, how much time it's going to pass to life. But in a blink of my eyes, I'm seeing now new people coming, new librarians. Then, I work with them trying to help or direct their ways in QPL. And so they go, “How do you know this?” “Well, this is like.” “Oh, you've been ten years.” Like, I don't even know when it feels literally overnight. Then, from this unexperienced person in the ways of how QPL operates and runs to now being a person that can help and direct others. Just time went really very fast.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=852.5,927.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/24","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Awesome. Can you tell me a little bit how QPL has changed over time and how it's remained the same throughout your time there?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=927.0,936.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/25","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e How QPL change?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=936.0,939.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/26","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Yeah. How the library has changed since you've worked there?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=939.0,942.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/27","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Yeah.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=942.0,943.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/28","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Or how it has stayed the same?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=943.0,945.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/29","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Changed dramatically and drastically. And of course, it's just a pure—that's essence of the library and QPL demonstrated clearly because whenever changes takes in society or in community, you can see that reflects immediately in operations and ways how QPL provides services.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=945.0,972.06667"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/30","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e So, it's been known that QPL is the home to 100 different nations and languages. And we try to cater that with our collections, programs but sometimes new things enter into our lives. Let's say, like last year, we have a big wave of migrants coming to Queens. And QPL responded in providing more literacy classes, helping these people to find their way into this country, into this society. Also, providing and increasing the collection in certain languages that we maybe we’re lacking. We have that as well.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=972.06667,1028.77778"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/31","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e During Covid, when people were staying at home, trying to see, finding the way of communicating and providing services, programs for people. We all stayed at home. So, virtual programs become a big, big things that were able to connect all of us. And even now that we actually can freely walk on the streets and come to the library, we still continue providing hybrid programs. That if you want, you can come in person. But at the same time you can have opportunity if you're not able to leave your home or you don't have time for your convenience, you can see that program and watch that program from the comfort of your home.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1028.77778,1102.88889"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/32","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e And also, providing technology. So, people can take tablets, rent tablets, bring them home. They can rent laptops, bring them home. And use whenever they can use. Provide the access to Wi-Fi. All of those recent changes that happen, and QPL try to keep up and go with the strides with all of this changing in societies, communities.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1102.88889,1140.91111"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/33","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Also, we increase tremendously, increase eBooks, serving eBooks. So, people the same as they can watch program from the comfort of their home, they can have now access to eBooks. List is growing.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1140.91111,1162.17778"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/34","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Of course, we are very much I would say embraced STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics] programs for children. Actually, we even got a new robot in CLDC. It's still in the process of programming and trying to see how we can use this new technology in our library setting. But yes, everybody talking about AI and here we are library and we have a real real robot. I'm sure helping us with programs and answering children's questions.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1162.17778,1212.44444"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/35","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e How Queens Library stays the same? Again, Queens Library is the reflection of what libraries have in their essence. Provide free access, helping people find their answers, find their ways. Especially, I'm talking about people that come from another country. United States always been a country of immigrants and Queens Library help those people tremendously. I'm one of them. And providing classes, providing literature, information that reflects their community, reflects the diversity of the community in terms of language or newcomers or people who already been there. They can find some classes if they want to start their business. They want to go and start learning language. The diversity of it in services still stays the main principle of Queens Library and still helping people.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1212.44444,1293.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/36","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Wonderful. Can you share a story of Queens Public Library having a positive impact on somebody's life? Whether that be yourself or somebody that you've worked with, children in the Discovery Center or anything like that?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1293.0,1307.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/37","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e So, I have a lot of stories and they maybe seems like not very big but I'm sure in my life and for other people, they were significant. Because sometimes a small directional suggestion or just conversation can be like they say that aha moment or the moment that changes your career and changes your life. Many years ago, when I was in search of my profession, being 28, I found myself again like, “What can I do with my life?” Somebody suggested that there is such a profession as teacher-librarian. And I was like, “Wow! That's combining teaching and library. That's excellent.”","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1307.0,1362.89427"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/38","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e That eventually this degree brought me to Queens Library. I'm extremely happy about that as I mentioned. I know that I help a few people who were changing their—I mean being in already Queens Library but they were switching from being a general librarian and after our conversation, multiple invitation to the children's department, the person decided that being and working with children was their calling. And taking that person with me to school visits, class visits, for observing programs, help the person become a children's librarian. And I think it was incredible. Somebody was able to open up and find their new calling within their profession, within being already librarian.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1362.89427,1422.65423"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/39","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e I have helped a few parents that they were coming and asking like, “How can I read?” “My child had some issues with reading.” And being creative and just pointing a few things how parents really can read with kids and it's not necessary in traditional way, sitting at the table. But being creative when you're on a bus, go and find some signs, read the signs. And I have parents coming back and thanking for providing kids with the right books that they just reach out to their kids. And now kids are reading.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1422.65423,1473.69039"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/40","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e A special story, last year—a summer ago in 2023, when we had a wave of migrants coming. Our team at that time Glen Oaks Library had a connection to the middle school. And the counselor reached out to us saying we have the group of these kids; they just recently came to the country. And they have no like they what their summer will look like. They're out of school. There are no other programs, and they ask if we will be able to help. And using my multi-language skills, I speak Spanish as well. So, we were able to bring them into the library and use library's resources for learning English like Rockets [Rocket Languages] and Transparent Language [Transparent Language Online] for them to start and improve their English skills. So, that I think was incredible story.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1473.69039,1547.82712"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/41","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e There's another one. It's in a way sad, but I think it's also a happy moment. While working in Hillcrest Library, I got to know some patrons and it was this former teacher and a lecturer, who had a very vast of knowledge of music. And I approached him if he would be interested to share and create some series of programs about music, opera, how it started, where it came. And so, he did a series of programs about early music development in 30s [1930’s] and 20s [1920’s] that became—brought us to Broadway shows as we know and have them now. And he did it absolutely for free just to share his knowledge and his time.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1547.82712,1613.90551"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/42","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e And then unfortunately, after a year, he was diagnosed with some illnesses. And he knew that his life was wouldn't be for a long time. He was very thankful that we give him that opportunity to share those moments and knowledge that he has with people and being useful in that way. I think it's and his family was extremely very happy about that. At that short period of time that his life burned. He had some good memories. And they were also connected to the community library that where he was coming every day reading New York Times. So, there are some stories. I think there's still happy stories.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1613.90551,1673.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/43","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Absolutely. So, I have two questions left, and one of them is what would you advise young people who want to work in public libraries when they're studying for their library science degree? Do you have any advice that you would give them about it?","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1673.0,1690.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/44","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Yes. We definitely need young people in this industry because they are really very good in navigating technology. And that's the easy part for them to embrace. The other side to embrace that people still, in times of technology, people still need that personal touch, personal attention, a personal understanding of their nature and trying to bring to them what they need. Sometimes, you know, people come in, they ask the question, but when you listen more carefully, you realize that it's actually not exactly that question, but something underlying and help that they need.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1690.0,1747.30978"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/45","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e And it could be they may be bored, they may be lonely. Or maybe they really exhaust their ability to learn about something and they come in for advice. Future librarians not to be afraid to share their personal—not to be afraid to open up and share their personal experiences. And in all ways, learning technology, reading something new or suggesting something new for people. As I said that end up being in the library for different reasons, accidentally, purposely, or because they have some challenges in their life.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1747.30978,1801.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/46","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e That's great advice. So, my last thing is just if there's—I wanted to ask you if there's anything else you'd like to share that I didn't ask you directly.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1801.0,1816.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/47","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e I think that I wish everyone to find their ways in this life that will bring them joy on their professional and personal level. I consider myself extremely lucky person that I was able to find that path where I feel happy, complete where I can enjoy my life and see how other—and help other people to progress and find their ways in whatever ways they looking to fulfill in their life. And the most important, I love to help people and this is the great place to be. Thank you.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1816.0,1872.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/48","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e Wonderful. Thank you so much.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1872.0,1875.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/49","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eOksana Kondrashova:\u003c/strong\u003e Thank you, Kaitlyn.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1875.0,1878.0"},{"id":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221/transcript/80043/annotation/50","type":"Annotation","motivation":"transcribing","body":{"type":"TextualBody","value":"\u003cstrong\u003eKaitlyn Normoyle:\u003c/strong\u003e No problem.","format":"text/plain"},"target":"https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/collections/1432/collection_resources/148676/file/273221#t=1878.0,1880.0"}]}]}]}