Professionally

Jessica Fitzpatrick (or Jessie) is an award-winning librarian, author, speaker, journal contributor, and advocate based just outside of Houston, Texas. She is the author of Growing Teen Engagement: Strategies to Captivate Secondary Learners (AASL Standards-Based Learning Series), a hands-on guide to creating learner-centered library programs that support the full spectrum of teen development.

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A passionate believer in innovation, connection, and the power of the school library, Jessie is known for doing whatever it takes to reach every student, even if it means doing silly things. She believes the library is the heart of every school and the largest classroom. It should be welcoming, dynamic, and accessible to all. She also believes that librarians are strongest as a team and works to create a culture of shared support and inspiration across the profession.​

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Jessie holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Houston and a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of North Texas. She has been recognized as a 2022 Library Journal Mover & Shaker and a 2022 TLA MVP. She is also the recipient of multiple honors, including the AASL Inspire Special Event Grant; the YALSA MAE Award for Best Literature Program for Teens; the 2022 TLA Branding Award for Reading Program; the 2022 TLA LIRT Project of the Year; and the 2020 TLA Branding Award for Community Engagement. Jessie has served as a contributor to YALS and served on the TAYSHAS Reading Committee.

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Follow her creative library adventures on Instagram and Twitter: @librarian_fitz.

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When she’s not living her dream as a librarian, she is probably eating circus peanuts and pickles—yes, really!—or spending time with her family.