James Baldwin brought me here.

​The Rogue Librarian is an ongoing project that seeks to fill a void so often found in literature and education. Growing up, I didn't see myself reflected in any of the books I read or in any material taught to me in school. Coming from a large Puerto Rican family, I didn't learn about Latino notables, achievements, or historical events until the end of college. It seemed that if I wanted to go beyond the traditional American narrative, I'd have to take my education into my own hands. So, here I am, a librarian pulling together stories so we can all make sense of ourselves and those around us.

My dream is to be like my hero, James Baldwin. To help others experience what it means to be in someone else's shoes, even for a moment, by utilizing the power of storytelling. My dream is to help people become unafraid of being a witness to the realities of minority groups. To look behind the curtain that has shielded us from our history's dark side.

To move forward, we need to equip ourselves with a scientific mindset. We need to have the ability to be critical of ourselves and our country. This is an approach that is more about self-love than self-hatred.

As Jimmy says,

"I love America more than any other country in the world and, exactly for this reason, I insist on the right to criticize her perpetually."

I was made for the library because it is a space that can be open and free.

I'm a librarian because it is my dream to share that freedom with everyone.

​Deanna Irizarry-Fields, M.L.I.S.