Wearing many hats throughout her career as a librarian, Lisa Grimes has worked her way from a dazzling Ms. Frizzle figure managing various school libraries to her newest position as McFarlin Library's Assistant Dean. Lisa is a prime example of how interdisciplinary training and unyielding determination can transfer professional skillsets into the program growth that a library needs. Read Lisa's responses to learn about her educational journey, her interesting find in the stacks, and her future plans.
How long have you been at McFarlin and what roles have you had during your tenure?
I started working at McFarlin Library on July 15, 2019 as the Student Success Librarian. In February 2024 I was promoted to Director of Instruction & Research, which established a new department for McFarlin Library. In July 2025, I am being promoted to Assistant Dean of McFarlin Library while maintaining my Director of Instruction & Research title.
Why librarianship? What made this career appealing to you?
I have worked in instruction for 25 years, but working in libraries has been the most rewarding part of my career. I get to collaborate with faculty and other librarians, connect patrons to both print and digital resources, and work with a diverse range of people every day. Helping patrons discover new resources and strategies to tackle rigorous research queries is very fulfilling.
What is your non-library training and/or degree, and how does it help you as a librarian?
My bachelor's degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on teaching K-6 Science and Social Studies. I also have a Master of Business Management (MBA) from TU. Having a background in public education taught me valuable skills such as working with diverse populations, connecting lessons to different learning styles, communicating effectively, and managing multiple projects at once.
My MBA prepared me for administration by strengthening my leadership skills, sharpening my approach to outreach and marketing, equipped me with essential financial skills, and enhancing my ability to analyze data.
What’s your favorite spot in McFarlin Library and why is it your favorite?
I love visiting Special Collections! The Satin Reading Room is gorgeous, but it goes well beyond the amazing aesthetics. This unique library space is humbling, giving me the opportunity to learn about a vast array of resources, authors, and historical events. There are always opportunities to learn and discover new things.
Can you tell me about a memorable interaction you have had with a patron?
A student came in feeling frustrated, wanting to change their research topic. During our PRA session, I was able to show them a few different databases and advanced research strategies, along with a way to expand their keyword usage. They were so surprised when the results were exactly what they had been looking for. In fact, they were so excited that they sent a few friends to the library to get help as well.
What is your favorite media to consume and what makes it your favorite?
As a librarian, most people expect me to say books, but my favorite media revolves around sit-coms and video games. I am in “go-mode” most of the day, so being able to sit back and relax and be entertained is a great way for me to laugh and unwind.
What’s the best (non-human) resource at McFarlin?
Our Databases are a great resource for students, faculty, and staff. We are fortunate to have a wide range of subscriptions to help all our researchers find valuable information and sources.
Tell me the most bizarre thing you have seen while walking through the book stacks.
I was doing a walk-through of the stacks one day and found some contraband that led to a fun interaction with Campo.
If you could go back in time and talk to one of the designers who modified the building, which phase would you jump to and what would you tell them?
I would go back to 2007 and ask them to add some sound insulation between the floors of the library to prevent sound from travelling so well between our offices and meeting rooms.
You’re trapped in McFarlin for the night: what do you do when no one else is around?
If I were trapped in McFarlin for the night, first I would crank up the music using our karaoke speaker, then I would make a slingshot and use it to launch bouncy balls up and down the Main Level hallway. Once I got tired of that, I would go down to the Browsing Level and use the DVDs to make a “house of cards” and see how high I could build it without everything falling over.
What is an exciting project you are currently working on, or a future endeavor you are anticipating?
We have hosted a librarian’s conference for Tulsa Public Schools librarians for the past two years. This year we are expanding the conference to all Tulsa County school librarians! We are so excited for this opportunity and look forward to expanding it even more next year!