Ten Questions with Ailyn Trujillo

Ailyn Trujillo began her journey at Harper College as a student and recipient of the Distinguished Trustee Scholarship. After obtaining her Associate in Arts and Science degrees, she transferred to Elmhurst University, where she graduated with a bachelor’s in intercultural studies and minor in Spanish language and culture. During her undergraduate studies, Ailyn began working at her public library, and that opportunity blossomed into a greater understanding of the role of libraries in society, beyond free access to books.

Shortly after graduating from Elmhurst, the Harper alum became a library assistant at the Harper College Library and now serves as the circulation supervisor. She is currently completing her Master of Science in Library and Information Science with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Ailyn is passionate about helping others and is also a member of Harper’s PASO taskforce. When she’s not collaborating with her library team, you can find her daydreaming about a train ride through the Swiss Alps. Here are ten questions with Ailyn Trujillo. 

1. Describe your perfect day.

A 75-degree, sunny Saturday on a holiday weekend. I can sleep in and not think about work or the time. At some point in the day, someone surprises me with an iced coffee or iced matcha latte. 

2. You could be best friends with any fictional character; who do you choose and why?

Uncle Iroh from the animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender. He is wise, compassionate and authentic; someone who helps people see themselves for who they truly are, and a symbol of hope. He is also hilarious and is a fan of tea, so I would love to just sit down and have a conversation over a cup of tea. 

3. What current fact about your life would most impress your 5-year-old self?

That I work in a building filled with books. However, she would be upset to know I don’t have any time to read during the workday.

4. It's your turn to sing karaoke. What song do you pick? 

Either "This is How We Do It" by Montell Jordan or "Everybody" by Backstreet Boys. These are great songs, so if I have an audience, I could see people head-bopping and getting involved in the chorus. They can at least enjoy the beat while they put up with my singing.

5. What's your dream vacation?

A train ride through the Swiss Alps.

6. What's a color you gravitate towards and why?

Sunset yellow. If I had to describe a warm hug as a color, it would be that. 

7. What would your loved ones say is your best quality?

My sense of commitment and ability to empathize with others.

8. What do you wonder about?

I’m wondering what this summer will look like! I’ve realized I prefer the warmer seasons, so I am really looking forward to all the community events, beach days and activities that I’ll be able to do outside. Even the idea of sitting outside on my porch is really exciting to think about.

9. What are you hopeful for?

I am hopeful we will have a new generation of leaders who will make our communities more inclusive and welcoming for all. There are good people who are continuously advocating for the rights and well-being of those who cannot speak for themselves, so I hope to be a part of that change.

10. What do you love most about the Harper College Library?

That I get to work with people who are dedicated, care about the work they do and are receptive to new ideas. The past four years have seen a lot of change in the library, so I am grateful that everyone is supportive and willing to help each other, especially during times of change. Thank you to everyone on the library team!