-Claudia C. Doctor

Library Assistant for Big Cypress

Chee-han-taa-moh, How are you?
I am Claudia C. Doctor from the Big Town Clan and a proud member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida.  I have lived my entire life on the Big Cypress Reservation.  Life has certainly changed since I was a child.  I believe it’s called “Progress”.  Our world is plagued with technology, which isn't necessarily bad, but sometimes I think it's a nice idea to take a break from our social media. The library is perfect for this. I guess what I’m trying to say is that while the rest of the world rushes day-by-day on their computers and cellphones, I like to stay in the present. Somehow, all of the surrounding printed books help me to feel like I’m rooted in the here and now. 

I have held other positions within our Tribe working with our Elders in the Senior Program and also assisting our adults and young people in the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (C.E.T.A.) Program.  I began working in the Education Department as the Big Cypress Library Assistant in 1992 and have been here ever since.  Within those 30 years, I have learned from each of my directors, supervisors and fellow staff members.  If I have any advice to offer regarding my longevity, it would be that you should not be afraid to ask questions, don’t think you know it all and always listen to those around you.  

I have had the opportunity of watching many children grow up to become mothers and fathers themselves and now I experience the gift of seeing their children use the library to enrich their lives as they search the web, read and explore our collections to learn about themselves and the world around them.  As librarians, we are always trying to leverage our collections, services, and resources for the good of our tribal communities. This includes taking positive steps to meet the requests for more Native American culture and history and we now have many new selections available.  I thoroughly enjoy and believe that the library is a safe place for our children and community.  There is something special about a good library.  The communal, for-the-greater-good feel of the place, the priority of knowledge and reading but with an emphasis of creating a hopeful, connected feeling – Respect each other, respect the library, be open to learning.  

Favorite Quote: "I love my Grandkids” - Claudia Doctor
Hobbies: Sewing, Beading, Movies with the Grandkids and Cooking.

Contact Claudia C. Doctor

Phone: (863) 902-3200 Ext: 13124