For many students at Merced College’s Los Banos Campus, the library is a place of focus, support and connection.

Helping maintain that environment is Tiffany Tevis, a library media technician II at the learning resources center, whose path with the college reflects dedication to education and student success.

Tevis first began working in the library in 2014 while attending Merced College as a student. She was hired through the Federal Work Study (FWS) program while pursuing her associate’s degree in accounting. That experience introduced her to the academic library environment.

She graduated in 2016 and later returned to the Los Banos Campus in 2018 as a part-time library media clerk. In 2024, she moved into her current full-time position as library media technician II. Alongside her professional growth, Tevis continued her education, earning her bachelor’s degree in 2022.

Most recently, in January 2025, she returned to school to pursue a master’s degree in business administration with a specialization in leadership.

“I was drawn to library work because it allows me to be part of a learning focused environment and interact with students regularly,” Tevis said. “I enjoy helping students find the resources they need and being part of a space that encourages curiosity and growth.”

In her role, Tevis is responsible for circulating books and materials, managing laptops and textbooks, assisting students at the circulation desk and supporting daily library operations.

Each day is different, but her work consistently centers on helping students feel comfortable and supported while using library resources.

“I serve as a point of connection between students and library resources,” she said. “By assisting with daily needs and questions, I help students feel supported while allowing librarians to focus on instruction and research assistance.”

Teamwork, Tevis said, is essential to the library’s success. “Libraries rely on collaboration to function smoothly,” she stated. “Clear communication and mutual support make a big difference in creating a positive experience for students.”

One aspect of her job that often surprises students is how much work happens behind the scenes. “Many students are surprised by how much work goes on behind the scenes to keep the library running smoothly,” Tevis said.

She also noted that students are often surprised to learn that librarians must hold a master’s degree in library science.

What Tevis enjoys most about her work is building relationships with students. “I love seeing familiar faces, learning about what students are studying and hearing about their goals,” she said.

What keeps her motivated, she added, is knowing that her work makes a difference. “Whether it’s helping someone find a resource, assisting with technology or simply offering a friendly face, I feel like I am supporting their success,” Tevis said.

Technology has significantly changed the way libraries operate, transforming them into spaces that offer both physical and digital resources. Students now have access to online databases, e-books and laptops, making learning more flexible and accessible.

“I assist students with the technology we have in the library and take time to explain each step clearly,” Tevis said. “My goal is to create a welcoming environment where students aren’t afraid to ask questions.”

Outside of work, Tevis enjoys reading whenever she can. “Being surrounded by books in the library has made reading a bigger part of my life,” she said.

Tevis encourages students to explore the library fully and not to hesitate to ask questions. “Libraries are much more than a place to check out books,” she said. “They are a supportive space for learning, studying and exploring new ideas.”

Through her dedication to education and student support, Tevis continues to play an important role in creating a welcoming library environment at Merced College.