Meet the Staff

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Erica

Executive Director

Hi! I am the Executive Director. I was hired in September 2014 as a Programming Librarian and was promoted to Assistant Director in October 2020. In March 2022, I was named the Library Director and in July 2024 my title was changed to Executive Director of Benbrook Library District. My main purpose is not only to keep the library running with budget and administrative responsibilities but also to support the staff as they deliver programs and services to the community. I work with the staff and Board of Trustees in collaboration so that the library is a welcoming place for all Benbrook residents. My favorite part of being the Executive Director is working with the community and the look on patrons' faces when they realize how much our library has to offer! As we work towards the process of building a new library, I am wholeheartedly dedicated to building a library that meets the needs of our community.


 

Library Services

Miranda

Assistant Executive Director

Hello! I’m the Assistant Executive Director at Benbrook Library, and I’ve been here since 2001. I started as a Youth Services Librarian, where I loved working with children and their families. As I advanced to Youth Services Manager and then Library Services Director, I found even more ways to engage with and support our community. Now, in my role as Assistant Director, I’m excited to keep contributing to projects that make our library a vital resource for everyone. I truly love this community and am grateful to be part of its growth and development.


 

Miranda

Alicia

Adult Services Librarian

Hello! I am an Adult Services Librarian. I began working at Benbrook Public Library in February 2024. Before starting a new career as a librarian, I spent over 14 years as an educator in independent schools. I graduated with my Masters in Education from Long Island University and a BA in Theatre Design from SUNY New Paltz. I am thrilled to start a new chapter here at Benbrook and look forward to serving my community. I love reading, writing, knitting, and baking. I am an avid equestrian and when I’m not at the library you will probably find me at the barn. Besides my horse, I have a Pekingese and a cat whom I adore.  


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Chelsey

Adult Services Librarian

Hello! I am an Adult Services Librarian. I started working at the Benbrook Library in November 2023. In the past, I’ve worked at the Burleson Public Library, White Settlement Library, and most recently Mansfield Public Library. I have loved working in each library and experiencing friendships through the love of reading. I graduated from UTA in 2014 with a Bachelors of English and History and from UNT in 2017 with a Masters in Library Science. I have 2 cats that I spend most of my time with. I enjoy reading fantasy, young adult, juvenile fiction, classic, romance, and science fiction books. My other interests include kpop, concerts, crocheting, and playing flute.


 

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Haley

Youth Services Librarian

Hi! I am a Youth Services Librarian and I started working at Benbrook Public Library in April 2024, shortly before finishing up my MLS at Texas Woman's University. Before coming to Benbrook, I worked in many positions in the Tom Green County Library System in San Angelo, TX for almost two years. In that time, I discovered my love of working with kids of all ages and am not afraid to dance around and roll on the floor with the littles in story time or sit down with teens and help them find and explore their niche interests. When I'm not working, I'm reading (mainly fantasy, sci-fi, horror, romance, and YA, but I dabble in about everything), spending time with my dogs and gecko: Belle, Morgana, and Alphys, or seeking out expos, cons, ren faires, and just about anything else that gives me the excuse to dress up.  


 

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Hannah

Youth Services Librarian

Hello! I am a Youth Services Librarian. I started in May 2024, right after finishing my master's degree in information studies at the University of Texas at Austin. Before obtaining my master’s degree, I worked in youth programming at the Fairfield, Texas library and taught 1st grade for two years in Memphis, Tennessee. I have a background in film and animation, and I try to always have an ongoing animation project. I read a lot, and while I try to keep my reading diverse, I mostly read horror, graphic novels, literary fiction, and non-fiction. I have a giant orange tabby cat named Tombo who keeps me on my toes.


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Austin

Reference Materials Specialist

Hello! I am the Reference Materials Specialist focusing on supporting the collection development and youth services librarians. I started here at Benbrook in early January 2021, and since then I've taken on a multitude of duties to ensure the best experience possible primarily shelving in the children’s area, and assisting with the set up for many programs.  I developed my love for reading at a young age and it's been sincerely rewarding to help others find that for themselves, especially with the same books I remember enjoying at their age. Currently my passion for books lies in nonfiction, psychology, philosophy, and just anything with a neat book-cover. I enjoy baking, playing video games, listening to music, and I also think frogs are super sweet! I love what I do with being able to assist anybody with their library needs, and I welcome any and all questions you may have. Thank you for allowing me to serve y'all!


 

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Krystal

Collection Development Librarian

Hi everyone! I was hired as a Library Assistant in March of 2022. I got my bachelor’s degree in Classical Civilizations and minored in English and Studio Art from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. During my summers I volunteered at the North Richland Hills Library and loved it so much that I decided to get my master’s degree. I graduated from the University of North Texas with my Library Science degree in 2014. I worked at Lancaster Veterans Memorial Library in Lancaster, TX as a Library Assistant for almost 5 years where I did a little bit of everything. I enjoy reading just about everything, but some of my favorites are fairy tale retellings, fantasy, historical fiction, and children’s books with great art!


 

Krystal C

Gisela

Marketing Specialist

Hello! I am the Marketing Specialist, hired in March 2024. I am a recent graduate with a degree in communications and a background in marketing. I am thrilled to be a part of this community through the Benbrook Library and continue to spread awareness of all we have to offer! During my off time I enjoy reading, gardening, long walks with my Basenji pup, Sparty, and finding new coffee shops to kick back!


 

Gisela

Bridgett

Community Coordinator

Hi! I am the Community Coordinator, and I joined this wonderful team in January of 2023. I have always dreamed of working in a library, and I’m so excited to be a part of this group!

As the Community Coordinator, I work on expanding the volunteer program, partnering with the Friends of Benbrook Library, interacting on social media and our website, fundraising, and all kinds of other activities!

I love reading (check out "The Wheel of Time" series), anime (currently obsessed with Black Clover), video games, cats and D&D (my favorite D&D class is either Horizon Walker Ranger or any Cleric)!


 

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Andrew

Courier Driver

I'm originally from New Hampshire. I love long bicycle rides and road trips. My favorite dessert is apple pie. 


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Paul 

Courier Driver

Hi! I am the secondary courier for our library and was hired in September of 2025. My main responsibility as courier is to deliver books to libraries from different cities around Fort Worth. Before finding the library, I served on active duty in the Marine Corps for 7 years as a field radio operator (0621). I plan on attending TCU in the future for mechanical engineering. My hobbies include riding/working on motorcycles and going to the gym to stay fit.


 

Paul Gauwain

Debby

Volunteer/Donation Assistant

Thank you for your interest in our team. After spending several years as a dedicated volunteer at the Benbrook Public Library, I was honored to be hired in August 2025 to assist Bridgett, our community coordinator. This opportunity has allowed me to deepen my involvement with the library and support its mission in new ways.

In my current role as Volunteer/Donation Assistant, I help manage our volunteer team to ensure our library programs run smoothly and that volunteers feel valued and supported. I also oversee the handling of physical donations from patrons, making sure contributions are processed efficiently and provide meaningful benefits to our community. Additionally, I work closely with the Friends of Benbrook Library, especially during community events, to strengthen our outreach and foster stronger connections within Benbrook.

Outside of my library work, I enjoy reading, scrapbooking, exercising, and traveling, all of which allow me to explore new experiences and stay active. I also continue to volunteer at the Benbrook Animal Shelter, where I am grateful for all the dog and cat cuddles I receive.

We're grateful for everyone who helps make our library vibrant. We welcome new volunteers and donors—please join us! If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to connecting with you.

Debby

Circulation

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Sheryl

Circulation Director

I am the Circulation Director here at Benbrook Public Library. I manage a staff of seven wonderful people! You might ask yourself, what does the Circulation Department do? We are here to make sure you have the widest variety of books, DVD’s, audiobooks and technology to check out. We check in the items when you turn them in and put them back out on the shelf so other patrons can enjoy them. The Circulation Department is where you can get an ILL, which is a way to get books that can’t be found in our library or any of the MetroShare libraries. Our department is where you will come to get a new library card or to renew your library card after three years. We also process new books and mend books that are in need of repair. So, as you can see, we are quite busy. So please come in to meet our friendly staff! We always have someone there to greet you at the Information desk and help you in any service that you might need!


 

Jenny

Jenny

Library Assistant

I have been with the Benbrook Library since October 2020. I started out as an On-Call Library Assistant and then moved up to a part-time Library Assistant. You can find me either at the Information Desk or out amongst the books! I can help you with checking your items out, locating books, or just about any question you may have about our library.  This is my ideal place to work, surrounded by books. My other hobbies include crocheting, sewing, gardening, playing with and walking my dogs. Come and lose yourself in a book!


 

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Tatyana

Library Assistant

Hey there! I'm a Library Assistant who moved to Benbrook, Texas in 2021. Spider-Man, my favorite superhero, constantly inspires me with his heroic tales. When it comes to movies, Twilight holds a special place in my heart as my go-to choice. During my downtime, I thoroughly enjoy reading, playing video games, watching anime, and immersing myself in movies. It's an absolute blessing to work at the Benbrook Public Library alongside an amazing group of individuals.


 

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Keri

Processing Library Assistant

Hello! I am a Processing Library Assistant. I moved to Fort Worth, Texas in April 2024. I absolutely love working in the library and being able to work with these amazing people who have a shared heart for books and helping others!!!

I worked in a library a long time ago then ended up working for Gray Televison for 13 years as a Technical Media Producer (directing newscast and keeping tv stations on air). I'm so excited to be back in a library as it is my happy place!  I love to immerse myself in reading (mainly fantasy, sci-fi, retelling of fairy tales, romance, and YA especially dystopian); getting lost in a new world, you never know where it's going to take you or how it might change you a little each time. I enjoy watching movies, playing video games, D&D, watching any crime show there is and last but not least I have an eclectic array of hobbies such as: crocheting, puzzles, building metal models, gardening and plants. I love them all but never have enough time to do it all at once!!!. 

I love being at home with my 2 dogs (Domino aka NONO and Venus) as well as spending time with my boyfriend watching movies that touch the heart strings!


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Jenni

ILL Library Assistant

Hello Everyone! My name is Jenni and I am an ILL Library Assistant. I started in June 2024 and I'm excited to begin my journey with you all. I moved to Benbrook in 2021 to be closer to my family after living in California for most of my life. Before moving here, I taught theatre for 20 years and have been working with children and young adults with autism for the last three. I am currently in school working toward my MLS in hopes of becoming a youth librarian when I finish. I love working with children of all ages and I'm excited to learn and grow here at the Benbrook Library. When I'm not working or studying, I enjoy reading romantasy, non-fiction, and of course, children and YA books. I also love to bake- anything from cookies to sourdough bread! I look forward to getting to know our community better and helping you with any and all of your library needs!


 

Joyce

Joyce L.

Materials Specialist

Hi. I have worked at BNPL as a Library Assistant since June of 2015. Just recently, my job title changed to Materials Specialist. I’m grateful for the change and to be working behind the scenes to restore a large portion of our damaged item. Thank you for the opportunity to continue serving the patrons.


 

Lelani Martinez

Leilani

Shelving Library Assistant

Hello! I am the Shelving Library Assistant, hired in June 2024. Before being hired, I volunteered at the
library while attending Tarleton State University as a full-time student. I am currently a senior pursuing a bachelor's degree in Business Managerial Information Systems. In the Fall of 2025, I plan to apply for a Master's in Library and Information Science. I discovered my love for books in elementary school. During my free time, I enjoy reading BookTok recommendations, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.


Catherine Presley

Catherine

Library Assistant

Hi! I am a Library Assistant, I started working for the library in 2024 as the summer page, but I grew up coming to this library. I am about to graduate from Tarleton State University with a bachelor's in history, after graduation, I plan to pursue a master's degree in library science. I like reading romantasy, YA fantasy, historical fiction, folklore, and history. I enjoy walking my pittie mix Bubba, two-step and swing dancing, and baking. Thank you for the opportunity to give back to the community that helped raise me!


 

Lara Supercinski

Lara

Library Assistant

I joined the Benbrook Public Library in the summer of 2025 as a Substitute Library Assistant, and I'm excited to be a part of this community. I love diving into psychological thrillers, romantasy, and biographies, but I'm always up for a great recommendation. Hearing what others enjoy reading is one of my favorite parts of library life. Being a part of the library allows me to combine my love of learning with connecting to others. Outside of work, I'm a football and drumline mom. I also enjoy crafting and birding whenever I can.


 

Operations

Kristen

Library Operations Director

Greetings!  I’m Kristen, the Library Operations Director.  I oversee library finances and operations.  I started full time at Benbrook Library in October 2023, but you may know me from past art programs as early as 2019.   I have a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University and twenty years of experience in non-profit arts management including financial and ticket services roles.  I’m also a textile artist who spins yarn, knits, crochets, weaves, prints fabric, and dyes fiber.  In my spare time, I enjoy reading and watching all things science fiction and fantasy, tabletop gaming and cooking with my husband and cats.  I’m excited to be part of the library team and serve the Benbrook Community!


 

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Joyce P.

Operations Specialist

Hi! I’m the Operations Specialist. I joined the amazing library team in February 2024 after volunteering for one year. With an eclectic work history spanning HR, finance, and customer service, I've developed a versatile skill set.  When I'm not immersed in the professional world, you'll find me lost in the pages of a captivating book, tending to my beloved plants, and attending concerts or embarking on exciting travel adventures with my husband.


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Ted

Makerspace and Facilities Manager

Hello everyone! My name is Ted, and I am the Makerspace Specialist “Extraordinaire.” I joined the library in June 2022. I am one of the newest member of the Benbrook Library's merry band of misfits. (I’m still trying to prove to them that I'm cool enough to work here.) I was brought in to help make all your dreams come true, and my mission in life is to teach you how to make the most out of your library. 

Perhaps you’ve always longed for a plastic model of an octopus in a top hat, or maybe you want a sign warning every one of the attack chickens; well, I am here for you. If all you need is a life-size cut-out of yourself so you can prop it at work whenever you want the day off, I’ll show you how I made mine. 

Every day I am amazed at the projects and ideas that our patrons come in with, and I love helping them make it all come to life. It’s also fun watching everyone’s eyes light up when they discover what they can create here in our “little library.” I enjoy working here so much; I’ve only had to use my life-size cut-out a couple of times.


 

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Gary

Facilities Specialist

Howdy!  I’m Gary – a dad to 3 amazing kids.   We love snow skiing, volleyball, hiking, singing, karaoke, musical theater, local theater, dancing, canoeing, mountains, rivers, lakes, camping, snowshoeing, sledding, sewing, crafting, farmers markets, thrifting, antiquing, coffee shops, math games, paddle boarding, hammocking, reading, cooking, baking, live music, trivia night, sunrises, sunsets, walks in the park, cats, dogs, and the Oxford comma. In my spare time, I work at the library fixing things.


 

Gary Clayton

Anneliese

MakerSpace Assistant

Hey there!  I began working at the Benbrook Library in September of 2025.  I have a Masters in Social Work and hours of undegreed time in crafts and IKEA furniture building.  I spent three years in Japan and South Korea and love that different perspectives bring different styles to art.  I can often be found at home enjoying movies, books, and video games- basically anything that can let my imagination run wild, which makes working in the Makerspace a dream.  I am thrilled to work on creative projects every day and happy to serve the Benbrook Community.  So, if you have an idea, stop on by!  And let's see how we can bring it to life.

Anneliese