The Embodiment of Quality Service: Donna Samuels Wins Quality Service Initiative Award

Donna Samuels and Tom White (one of her nominators) Photo by Melissa Cox Norris

Everyone lucky enough to work with Donna Samuels was overjoyed that she was chosen as the recipient of University Libraries’ Quality Service Initiative (QSI) Award for Spring Quarter.

Donna, a UC graduate in political science, joined University Libraries’ Acquisitions Department in May 1984. Since then, she has gained experience and valuable knowledge in not only in Acquisitions, but also in the Cataloging and Database Management Department, and now in the Monographs Department as a senior library associate. In her work, Donna provides a valuable service to library selectors by ensuring that requested books are ordered, reviewed, catalogued, and made available in a timely manner. Selectors have commented that she approaches her work with enthusiasm and does not shy away from tackling difficult problems. Donna is always willing to accept challenges such as taking the initiative to learn a new ordering system that will offer the library increased efficiencies and to investigate a new cataloging system. According to one of her coworkers, “Donna’s commitment to quality service is evidenced by her willingness to solve problems, share her extensive knowledge, complete work in a timely and efficient manner, and communicate and share ideas to create a positive work environment.” Donna truly loves working at the University and it shows.

In addition to her daily work, Donna has participated extensively in the Strategic Planning process. A member of one of the committees she served on said that, “Donna is a force for positive change” and that her objectivity and insight were greatly appreciated by all those whom served with her.” While a member of the Organizational Effectiveness Task Force, Donna consistently offered her skills and experience and ranks the Strategic Planning process as one of her best experiences here at University Libraries.

Donna’s commitment to her work enhances University Libraries’ reputation for providing timely, high quality service. She is always available to coworkers who come to her with questions and she freely shares her knowledge, thus enabling everyone around her to excel. According to one coworker, “Donna always volunteers to assist others and applies her skills in positive ways that enhance our working environment.” Another co-worker said, “To me, Donna is the embodiment of quality service.”

The QSI Award is an initiative born out of the QSI Committee as a means to recognize the fine work of staff in University Libraries who strive to provide the best service to library users as well as to colleagues. The award is presented three times per year.

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