UTA Libraries Staff Spotlight: Devon Peralta

Devon Peralta is passionate about helping students in his role at UTA Libraries. As the Guest Services Lead Student Specialist, Devon and the Guest Services team work to connect people with the resources, technology, and information they are looking for when they stop by the UTA Libraries.  

 Devon started working at the library in 2008 as a work-study student. When he graduated in 2014, his employment search led him back to UTA, where there was an open staff position with the library. Devon has worked at the library’s three branches and is now back at the Central branch.  

 With every person that comes through the door, the team at Guest Services works to be a resource.  

 "We want to be proactive. We don't want to wait for people to come to us. We want to be observant of the space, know what is going on, and if we see somebody say, 'Welcome, do you need help with something?’ We also want to greet people with a 'hello' or a smile so that they feel welcome. We want to invite them into the space," Devon said. "The other thing is we want to ensure that we provide the best customer service, making sure when they leave, we have answered all of their questions and helped them with all that they need to be successful to the best of our abilities."  

As Devon works with a team of 25 Guest Services Leads, he communicates to them the importance of ensuring each guest at the library has a great experience.  

"We want them to have a positive experience and to learn something new. As you can see on the first floor, we designed it so that when people come in, they can see some of the technology available for them to use, and they can ask questions," Devon said. "The whole idea is that it is an inviting and welcoming space. We want to embrace creative making. We have got the motion capture studio and the FabLab is on the other side, where they can create something with 3D printers. This place is more than just books. We have books, but we have collaborative spaces, study rooms, and other creative spaces."  

Devon shared that being able to help someone, share his knowledge, or mentor the people he works with is something he loves doing daily. He encourages people to stop by UTA Libraries because there is always something new and exciting going on throughout each branch.