Ryn Gagen, MLIS, is new to their role as the Medical School Librarian, but continue their great work at the Health Sciences Libraries (HSL). During their graduate education at St. Catherine University, Ryn completed an internship at HSL where they worked to increase discoverability and accessibility of instructional materials. Ryn’s resume also includes experience at White Bear Lake Areas Schools, the University of Wisconsin Survey Center, and the University of Wisconsin – Madison Libraries.  

Fast forward one year, and Ryn is seamlessly jumping back into our work. “I knew I wanted to return to academic libraries after my fantastic internship at HSL,” they said. In their role, Ryn is bringing their expertise to their collaboration with the Medical School and reigniting their passion for academic library work that was discovered during their undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.   

Ryn loves being surrounded by the energy and expertise of health sciences students and faculty. They share that, “Observing how people with diverse perspectives use information to navigate complex environments like healthcare systems is something that really fuels me as a librarian.”   

And as they work with their HSL colleagues and participate in consultations and instructional sessions, Ryn has observed the constraints and challenges healthcare professionals face in clinical settings, and how they use information resources to provide the best care they can to their patients. These experiences have prompted Ryn to invest in the ways librarians can help health professionals navigate complex information environments, make difficult decisions at the point of care, and sift through and evaluate large amounts of information and resources.

Ryn is generous in sharing their expertise. In addition to their work at HSL, they volunteer for the Quatrefoil Library, an independent nonprofit library focused on LGBTQ+ community outreach. 

They also have broad interests. Ryn enjoys meandering podcast/audiobook walks with their dog, reading about media and pop culture, and convincing people to explain their niche interests. Ryn adds, “If you see me around, please tell me about something that you’re passionate about!”