University Library News

For more than three decades, La Loria Konata has been a cornerstone of the Georgia State University Library, serving thousands of students, supporting dozens of faculty, and adapting to the ever-evolving world of higher education. Now, as she closes this chapter, she looks back with gratitude, humor, and hard-earned wisdom. 

“I really feel like I’ve grown up at Georgia State,” she said.  

A Journey Begins 

“I’ve been at Georgia State a little longer than most people realize. I started graduate school in January 1994 and worked as a student assistant in the Law Library, which was in Urban Life back then. I made my way over to the Pullen Library, which is now Library North, around May or June of 1995, where I worked in Interlibrary Loan. After getting my library degree, I became a librarian in 1999.” 

“I vaguely remember what I was wearing on my first day as a librarian,” says Konata. “I think they were some green slacks. I used to dress up for work back then,” she laughed, recalling her early years. “The internet was still kind of new, and I wasn’t good with using it.” 

La Loria’s first days at Georgia State looked dramatically different from the world we know now. She has seen many changes since beginning her career at Georgia State: 

• Payphones were everywhere. Now, students walk around campus with smartphones in their pockets. 

• Card catalogs, microfiche, and CD-ROMs were the tools of the trade. Today, students can access digital databases from anywhere in the world. 

• Email was just gaining traction. Now, people collaborate in real-time with platforms like Zoom, WebEx, and Teams. 

• Social media didn’t exist. Today, it’s a vital part of how students stay informed and build community. 

And in that same time, Georgia State transformed from a commuter school into a nationally recognized research institution and one of the largest universities in the state. And La Loria was there to witness the evolution. 

“Back then, GSU was nothing like it is now. People would come to campus, go to class, and then go home. The average age for undergraduate students was 27, so I was young for a 23-year-old graduate student. GSU has transformed into a more traditional school and is one of the most diverse universities in the US. We’ve got a new logo, Pounce has a new look, and we now have a football team. Back then, Microsoft Word didn’t exist. We used WordPerfect instead and Netscape was the internet browser. The library had a total of 24 computers unlike the hundreds we have on the floor and available for checkout.

A Career of Care and Kindness 

“I believe in treating everyone the same. Doesn’t matter if you’re the custodian, the dean or the president.” 

Throughout her career, La Loria made being kind and getting to know the people she works with a priority.  

“I think it comes from growing up in Mississippi. We’re just friendly people. If you see someone three times in a day, you speak to them three times a day,” she said with a smile. “That’s just how we were raised. And from there, it’s easy to build relationships.” 

And she carried that attention to people in the workplace. 

“I try to remember something non-work-related about the people I work with, and many are surprised when I’d bring it up in a later conversation. Doing this helped me learn there are some really interesting people who work in the library with a lot of different interests. One coworker taught me all about bees,” she said, laughing. “I love hearing stuff like that!” 

La Loria’s ability to connect with colleagues, students, and faculty was one of the things people appreciated most about her. That sentiment came through in a heartfelt message from Dr. Susan M. Snyder, Associate Professor in the School of Social Work, when La Loria announced her retirement: 

“It has been a privilege to work with you. I cannot imagine GSU without you. I will forever be grateful for all your help and support. You have helped me get more papers and grants done than I can believe. Numerous students have shared with me how inspiring and impactful you have been in their lives. Your ability to connect with students and motivate them to delve into research is second to none. You have changed the world in meaningful ways through your time at GSU. If I can ever do anything to support you, please do not hesitate to reach out. I wish you the very best for the future and the happiest possible retirement!” 

A New Journey Begins 

Although she always knew retirement would come one day, La Loria wasn’t quite sure how she’d feel about it when the time actually arrived. A decade ago, she admits, she would have left quietly with no announcements and no going-away party. 
 
“I would’ve told people, ‘Don’t announce I’m gone until I’m gone. I’m somewhat of an introvert and wouldn’t have wanted the attention.’”  

But with the encouragement of her therapist, she’s learned how to embrace the moment. 
 
“They told me, ‘Let them celebrate you.’ And I’m glad I listened. I actually enjoyed the party. It was like a therapy exercise itself.” 

But for La Loria, retirement isn’t about slowing down. It’s about finally having the time to do what brings her joy. 
 
“I’m going to start piano lessons. And I want to learn how to DJ. I’ve got a gym [at home] , and I’m walking more. I’m going to focus more on my health.”  

“At heart, I’m a big kid, so I’m looking forward to doing fun stuff!” 
 
She’s also hoping to continue molding students, this time in the classroom as an instructor.  
 
“I applied to teach library school at Valdosta State. I know a lot, I’ve seen a lot, I’ve done a lot, and I think I can help future generations get ready for careers in libraries. Hopefully they’ll give me a ring for the spring.” 

“Grateful for it all…” 

La Loria Konata’s legacy at Georgia State isn’t just about the years she worked. It’s about the lives she touched, the growth she embraced, and the joy she found – and created – in the everyday. 
 
She came for a job with stability and insurance. She left with a lifetime of memories, friendships, and purpose. From mastering early internet tools to mentoring students and colleagues, she’s spent 30 years helping others learn while learning just as much about herself. 
 
“Like I said, I grew up here, and I’m grateful for all of it.”