National Women's History Month: Ruthie Brock

The University of Texas at Arlington Libraries is celebrating National Women's History Month by highlighting some of the inspiring women who make this organization a model 21st century urban academic library.

Today's interviewee is Ruthie Brock, Research Services & Business Librarian. Brock has worked for UTA for 45 years and has 46 years of experience working in libraries.

Alexandra Pirkle (AP): What was your first library-related job? How did you come to that job?

Ruthie Brock (RB): I was a student assistant in Special Collections here at UTA. I had recently moved to Arlington. I planned to commute to UNT in Denton to get my graduate library degree and while finishing up my undergraduate degree in History, I wanted some library-on the job experience. I still have a special place in my heart for our Special Collections staff, the work they do, and the interesting materials in their collection.

AP: What role have women played in your career and life?

RB: I worked very closely with Dr. Betsy Burson, Director of Arlington Public Libraries, while appointed by City Council to serve on the Arlington Public Library Board, and then was invited to serve on the newly created Library Foundation Board. Dr. Burson was an inspiration to me through her work ethic and love of libraries. She had a big influence on me, even though my preference for a career in libraries has been in academia.

AP: What is one of your favorite things about working at UTA Libraries?

RB: I am the only one still working at UTA Libraries who was employed here at the time I graduated with my Master’s in Library Science and was hired as a Business Librarian 45 years ago. I have had great enjoyment getting to know and work with so many wonderful people, both in the library and those I’ve worked with in the College of Business through my liaison role.

AP: Who is your favorite woman historical figure? Why?

RB: I’m fascinated by historical figures who are inventors and by women who have succeeded in careers that were predominately occupied by men, especially in the math, engineering, and sciences prior to the current women’s movement. Currently, I’m interested in Rosalind P. Walter, one of the “Rosie the Riveters,” who worked on an assembly line in an aircraft factory during World War II and recently died at age 95, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and the New York Times.

AP: What is something about you that others would be surprised to know?

RB: 

1. That I wanted to be a Broadway dancer when I grew up.
2. In junior high, my boyfriend and I won an American Bandstand type of dance contest that was televised on the Ames, Iowa Public Television station.
3. That I have a 56 year old son, the father of my twin grandchildren.

Thank you, Ruthie, for all of your hard work and dedication to student success!