ASU Library student employees honored for leadership, service and storytelling

Creativity. Customer service. Problem-solving.

These are just a few of the many skills library student employees use every day to support the ASU community. 

Last month, ASU Library announced the spring 2026 recipients of the Tomalee Doan LibAid for Student Success Award. The biannual award recognizes outstanding library student employees who work every day in the libraries and behind the scenes to provide essential library services and resources.

First place was awarded to Yuvixa Dominguez, a junior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in film and media production through the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. Rayna Hylden, earning a bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering from the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, received second place.

Yuvixa Dominguez from Phoenix, Arizona, began working at the library in fall 2024. In her role, she assists with outreach and social media, focusing on connecting with fellow students. From tabling at events such as PAB Pop-Up and leading library tours to creating reels interviewing students, working at ASU Library allows Dominguez to share all that the library has to offer with other students.

“The library has given me a chance to see a different side of what it means to have ASU care for its students,” said Dominguez. “I've come to adapt what it means to become a better worker for the students as well. The ability to see the compassion (that the staff has) for strengthening students' academic careers has offered me a position where I can translate staff concerns to communal care for my peers.”

In her nomination, Dominguez was recognized for her ability to create social media content for the library that engages users, particularly students. The award will support her growth as an artist and storyteller and help her invest in essential filmmaking equipment.

Working at the library also provides student employees with hands-on experience for their career journeys after graduation.

"Although I am studying film, I’ve used the skills and insights I’ve gained from it to connect with students in outreach. While film and outreach seem unrelated, film is deeply rooted in reflecting human experiences, which has helped me better engage with others at the library,” Dominguez said.

“These experiences have prepared me to apply my existing knowledge in new contexts, supporting my growth and future career,” added Dominguez.

Originally from Denver, Colorado, Rayna Hylden has worked for Hayden Library’s public services for over two years, handling a variety of patron needs and questions, from troubleshooting printers to offering research assistance. 

“The ASU Library is a place where I connect with my community. Supporting my fellow students through locating academic resources, providing directions, checking out equipment and answering any other questions enables me to give back,” said Hylden.

Hylden’s kindness, helpfulness and knowledge were noted in her ability to go above and beyond to assist patrons. She also promotes the library through collaborating on social media and being an ambassador for the library in her daily life. Recognized by peers, Hylden is a trusted source of information about library resources. 

She is also enrolled in Barrett, The Honors College and studies renewable energy systems, specializing in solar panels. This summer, she is an intern at the University of Stuttgart (Universität Stuttgart) in Germany, researching manufacturing methods to make flexible solar panels for satellites. 

Receiving this award will help Hylden reduce financial stress to focus on earning her degree. As she prepares for her role as an engineer, Hylden reflected on how this experience will influence her future employment.

“While the technical knowledge of a STEM degree is obviously needed for my career, I believe the most essential part of my future success is the ability to work with people. I am incredibly grateful to the ASU Library for facilitating my growth as a student, employee and person,” Hylden said.