Children at the Duong Lieu Library’s circulation desk

Starting as a self-taught librarian with a deep love for books and a passion for community service, I have always believed that libraries are an essential part of any community. Before joining the iSchool at Syracuse University, my work in Vietnam as managing a private library and supporting small community libraries—was meaningful but lacked professional grounding. Through the MLIS program, I have been able to turn that passion into a deeper, more informed commitment to the field. I now see libraries not only as places for knowledge, but as spaces that reflect the culture, values, and needs of the people they serve.

My time at the iSchool helped me grow in many ways. I gained new perspectives on the role of libraries in society and developed practical skills in management, instructional design, community engagement, and information literacy. More importantly, I learned to approach librarianship with empathy and purpose. I realized that what I had done before was just the beginning, and that my efforts could be stronger with the right tools, theories, and strategies. Each course helped me connect my past experiences with a clearer vision for the future.

Many of my friends have asked me what I learned from the iSchool and what mattered the most. It’s a hard question to answer, but I believe there was a clear turning point. This journey confirmed for me that I chose the right path. The more I learned, the more I loved and the more confident I became in my values and direction. I also feel more connected to the professional library community, and more inspired to support others who are working to improve access to knowledge in underserved areas. I also understand the importance of common sense in a library – applying ethical principles and professional skills to support users, ensure smooth operations and information access, and remain flexible. This sense has been strengthened during my two years in the MLIS program through knowledge and experience gained in the United States, allowing me to adapt and apply these learnings to the context of Vietnam.

Looking ahead, I plan to apply for fellowships to gain more experience in librarianship and exposure to cultures in countries I have never been to. As reflected throughout this portfolio, I hope to be a pioneer in strengthening the network of private and community libraries in Vietnam. With my passion, knowledge, experience, and deep love for libraries, I aim to create meaningful and timely initiatives that support and inspire these library systems. I also hope that my journey will motivate others, spark inspiration, and lead to positive change on a broader scale. In the future, my work will focus not only on expanding the impact of my own library and improving training for staff and volunteers, but also on building collaborative projects with schools and local organizations across Vietnam and Southeast Asia.

This program has given me more than just academic knowledge. It has shaped how I see myself and what I can offer to my community. I leave the iSchool with gratitude, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to grow and give back to the community I serve.