Library IRL is a monthly series that highlights the people behind the books, spaces, and services at HPU Libraries. Each feature offers a closer look at one member of our team, sharing insight into their work, interests, and the many ways they support students, faculty, and campus life. It is a chance to show the real people behind the library and tell the stories that do not always fit neatly into job titles or service descriptions.
This month, we are featuring Denzil Phillips!
About Denzil
What is your title and how long have you been at HPU Libraries?
I am the Research & Scholarly Support Librarian, and I’ve been with HPU Libraries for just over a month.
The Work
What does a typical day look like for you, or what do people think you do vs. what you actually do?
Most people probably think I spend my day finding articles, but my role is much broader than that. A typical day might include meeting with faculty about publishing or research impact, exploring research data management solutions, creating instructional materials, supporting students with literature searches, collaborating with colleagues, and thinking about ways to improve the overall research experience. Every day is a little different, and that’s one of the things I enjoy most.
What part of your work feels the most meaningful to you?
Helping people feel more confident in their research. Whether it’s a student learning how to navigate scholarly literature or a faculty member increasing the visibility of their research, it’s rewarding to know I’ve helped make the process a little easier.
What is something about your role that most people might not realize?
Research support goes far beyond helping someone find an article. It also includes topics like open access publishing, author rights, ORCID, research impact, scholarly profiles, research data management, and helping faculty share and preserve their scholarship.
What is one project or accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
I’m excited about helping expand scholarly communication services at HPU, particularly exploring ways to support faculty through initiatives like ORCID, research visibility, and future institutional repository services. Being able to help shape these services from the beginning is something I’m really proud to be part of.
The Human Side
What is your favorite spot in any HPU Libraries space and why?
I enjoy the quiet study areas because they’re a reminder of why libraries matter—they provide a welcoming space where people can focus, learn, and discover something new.
Coffee, tea, or something else?
Definitely coffee. It has become an essential part of my day, especially mornings, since I’m not a morning person.
What is something on your desk or in your workspace that says a lot about you?
My notebook. It’s full of ideas, sketches, reminders, and questions. If I think of a way to improve something, it usually ends up in there first.
What is a skill you have that is not in your job description?
User experience (UX) design. I enjoy studying how people interact with websites and services and finding ways to make them more intuitive, accessible, and enjoyable to use.
Library Culture
What is a library resource or service you love that more people should know about?
Our librarians! People often think of libraries as collections, but one of the greatest resources we offer is the expertise of the people who work here. We love helping people solve research problems, and asking for help can save a lot of time.
If you could magically add one thing to the library, what would it be?
A fully integrated institutional repository that showcases faculty and student scholarship, datasets, and creative works while making them more discoverable around the world.
Just for Fun
Favorite book, movie, or album right now?
Movie: Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. I’ve been a Star Wars fan for as long as I can remember. It’s one of those movies I can watch over and over, and I still appreciate the storytelling, characters, and world-building features.
A book you love but rarely get to recommend?
The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman. It’s fascinating because it changes the way you look at everyday objects and reminds you that good design should feel effortless.
If your job had a theme song, what would it be?
“Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen. Every day brings a new question to solve or a new opportunity to help someone, and that’s what keeps the work exciting.
One fun fact about you that surprises people?
I was born in Cape Town, South Africa, and before becoming a librarian I studied international relations. I still love learning about different cultures, technology, and how people interact with information.
By Gerald Ward, Assistant Director, Head of Archives & Special Collections