Meet Samantha Lumetta

How long have you been in your current position?
I’ve been in my current position for more than 3 years.

What do you love most about your job?
I love bringing communities together. Whether it’s inside the library or out in the community, helping people connect through shared interests and resources is incredibly rewarding. Seeing those connections happen never gets old.

How long have you been an OLC member?
I’ve been an OLC member for 12 years.

Why did you become involved with OLC?
Continuing education and maintaining a growth mindset have always been important to me. OLC consistently evolves to meet the needs of its members while providing valuable opportunities for learning and collaboration. I wanted to be part of an organization that supports Ohio libraries and contributes to their continued success.

What was the first OLC event you attended?
The Southwest Ohio Chapter Conference.

What was your first OLC committee or division experience?
My first experience was serving on Children's Services Division.

How has OLC membership contributed to your professional growth?
OLC has helped me build confidence in sharing my perspective, collaborating across a large organization, and planning and facilitating meetings. Through my involvement, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the diverse needs of communities throughout Ohio. These experiences have strengthened my skills in my current role and helped prepare me for future leadership opportunities.

What is your favorite OLC memory?
One of my favorite OLC memories was meeting picture book author and illustrator Bill Thomson at an OLC Youth Services Conference. After reading his books, I became his pen pal, and OLC provided the opportunity for us to finally meet in person—a truly memorable experience.

What is the best professional advice you’ve been given?
Know when to say yes. It can be tempting to accept every opportunity that comes your way, but doing so can quickly lead to burnout. Focus on the opportunities that align most closely with your current goals and trust that other opportunities will come around again.

Where can you sometimes be found in your free time?
When I’m not at work, you can often find me browsing the shelves of an Indie bookstore, discovering my next great read, or enjoying live music at a concert.