Chianta Dorsey
Chicago Public Library
Chicago, IL USA
"It is very important that people see themselves in history and in records."
Career Roadmap
Chianta's work combines: Education, Writing, and Communicating / Sharing Stories
See more careers and stories that connect to your interests.
Take Roadmap Quiz
Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Advice for getting started
I encourage library students to participate in internships. Library school will only teach you a small part of the career field, so internships can really help you decide which specialty is best for you. I think it's also incredibly beneficial to find a mentor to help support and guide you on your journey.
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
History
Xavier University of Louisiana
Graduate Degree
History
Simmons University
Graduate Degree
Library and Information Science
Simmons University
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
Growing up on Chicago's South Side, I discovered a love of books and storytelling through my neighborhood branch of the Chicago Public Library.
2.
While studying history in college, an internship at the Amistad Research Center introduced me to archives and inspired me to become an archivist.
3.
I earned my MLIS and master's in history, building the knowledge and skills to preserve and share underrepresented histories.
4.
After graduating, I started my career as a reference archivist.
5.
As I advanced through archival leadership roles, I discovered that building relationships and collaborating with communities was just as important as preserving historical collections.
6.
Creating “The Great Migration Grio” allowed me to preserve my own family's history while helping others see the value of their own stories.
7.
I returned home as division chief of archives and special collections at the Chicago Public Library, giving me the opportunity to lead the preservation and sharing of Chicago's diverse histories.
8.
Today, I help connect people with archival collections that honor community voices, expand access to history, and ensure everyone can see themselves reflected in the historical record.
