Welcome ACL Helfeld Scholars!
Eboni Weston
Hello. My name is Eboni A. Weston. I am a mother, a dedicated student, and I work as a permanent part-time library aide at the Oakland Public Library: Elmhurst Branch. My academic journey reflects both dedication and resilience. Education has always been a guiding light in my life, shaping my personal growth and inspiring me to serve my community. Balancing the responsibilities of parenthood has been a profound challenge, yet it has enriched my perspective and strengthened my commitment to supporting others—especially families navigating similar paths.
I earned Associate of Arts degrees in both Language Arts and Social Science from Laney College in Oakland, CA. Later, while caring for my son, I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Classics with a minor in History at San Francisco State University. Before beginning my library career, I spent six years as a stay-at-home parent after my son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Once he was ready to start elementary school, I took the opportunity to pursue my passion for libraries and enrolled in library school. I am currently in my second year of the MLIS and teacher credential program at the San Jose State University School of Information, specializing in teacher librarianship. My aspirations are to complete my degree, continue serving at the Oakland Public Library, and take on a substitute teaching role within a local school district. Being named a Dorothy Helfeld Fellow is a true honor for me
Sicilia Smith (They/Them)
Hi I’m Sicilia! I currently work as a Library Technician and member of the Children’s Team at the Alameda Free Library. I stumbled into the world of children’s programming when working at the San Rafael Public Library in 2023. I fell in love with the work and have since completed a year of Early Childhood Education classes at Merritt College in addition to volunteering with the Bay Area Childcare Collective. Outside of library work, I have a background as a fiber artist and garden educator, and I feel excited about arts programming and community collaboration. I find meaning and inspiration in being a safe and kind presence for young people and feel so excited to build community with ACL!
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