Cynthia Shetter

Cynthia J. Shetter is the director of the Los Lunas Public Library.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in general studies from New Mexico State University; and a Master’s of Library and Information Science from the University of North Texas.

Her family includes two daughters, Samantha (David) Mankins and Shelly (Fernando) Batres. She has five grandchildren, Kyle and Shawn Mankins, Fernando, Miranda and Maggie Batres.

She is vice chairwoman of the New Mexico State Library Commission; president of the New Mexico Municipal League of Librarians; board member of the Historical Society of New Mexico, the Valencia County Historical Society, Amigos Library Services, and the New Mexico Library Association, American Library Association, Public Library Association, Western History Association, Leadership New Mexico Alumni (local government and CORE programs); and Rotary Club of Los Lunas.

What advice do you have for aspiring women looking to advance their careers?

“Be truthful in all communications and be true to yourself.”

Who was/is your role model or mentor?

“Throughout my life, I have been shaped by many role models and mentors, beginning with my parents, Wayne and Hazel Johnson.

Raised on a ranch in southern New Mexico, they instilled determination, confidence and a strong work ethic. I also credit former library director Carmen Jaramillo-Campos for encouraging me to apply for my current position.”

Do you enjoy your job as much today as when you started?

“One of the greatest rewards of this job is that the library continually evolves with current events and technology, ensuring there is always something new to research or implement.”

What is one of your accomplishments that you are most proud of?

“In 2008, the opening of our branch library — the Los Lunas Museum of Heritage & Arts — sparked my passion for preserving the history of the village of Los Lunas and the surrounding communities.”

If you could say one thing to your younger self or give them one piece of advice what would it be?

“I don’t think I would give my younger self advice. All the trials and tribulations I have endured made me the strong and successful woman I am today.”

What is the best advice you received and from whom?

“My old friend, Bill Burns, told me, ‘You can’t control what other people do or say. You can only control how you react. So, do not let them take up residence in your mind. Do not give them that control.’”