Sara On Loving Australia
Sara Uehlein is the library manager at King & Spalding LLP in Washington, DC. Sarah received her Graduate Diploma of Library and Information Studies in 1993 from Queensland University of Technology. An AALL member since 1994, she also served as a committee member for the Australian Law Librarians’ Group (1997-98).
Why did you join AALL?
At my first job, the firm’s head librarian encouraged membership in AALL and the local chapter so I could take advantage of the educational programs.
Why do you stay a member?
For several reasons: I like participating in the webinars and being able to access them on-demand; going to the Annual Meeting and networking with colleagues and vendors; and remaining a part of the community—AALL truly is a community.
What one membership benefit is most valuable to you?
I like being a part of the community, knowing that I can reach out through both AALL and the Law Librarians’ Society of Washington, DC, trusting that people are willing to be generous with their time to help out.
What is your favorite memory associated with AALL?
There are two, both connected with the Annual Meeting in Portland. This was my first Annual Meeting, so it was inevitably memorable, and it was there that I picked up an AALL-branded lanyard which to this day, another manager from another department in my office wears—it’s still in good shape!
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I love to travel; going off and exploring new places and old favorites. I’m an entertainment devotee so I enjoy going to movies, watching TV, reading, and going to the theater. If it’s entertainment with a dose of history, that’s even better. Additionally, I adore water; being in it, sitting by it, or even just driving by it.
What book(s) are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading Hamilton: the Revolution by Miranda and McCarter. I also recently finished Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow; Girt: The Unauthorised History of Australia by David Hunt; and Written In My Own Heart’s Blood by Diana Gabaldon.
What’s your favorite travel/vacation destination?
Australia. I first traveled there in high school on a summer exchange program and then went back for graduate school. After a stint working in DC, I moved there for a few years, working in several different law libraries. Now whenever I have the opportunity, I head to Brisbane, Queensland, and Gnarabup to see friends, watch the waves, swim in the ocean, and mostly just relax.