Not So Frequently Asked Questions with Natalie Phillips!

Natalie Phillips

Natalie Phillips is one of our library assistants on the Public Services team. Our library assistants help out with the library's service desk schedule and much more! Natalie is our library Instagram account lead! Be sure to follow us on Instagram @chattstatelibrary. Natalie is not a new face at the Chattanooga State library service desk -- Natalie began as a library student employee before becoming a part of the staff.  We were able to ask Natalie some not so frequently asked questions!

1. Where did you go on your last vacation?
I went to Italy, not exactly a vacation, but I studied abroad there. I took Early World Literature, and it was fascinating to be immersed in history while reading it. One highlight was reading The Divine Comedy while visiting Dante’s house. Over three weeks, we visited Siena, Florence, Levanto, and Rome. I loved the old buildings and the rich history that surrounded you everywhere you looked. I’m looking for a way back every day.

2. Favorite local restaurants?
I’m on a mission to try new restaurants instead of going to the same ones over and over, but here are some of the repeats:

• Chattanooga Pizza Co. or Lupi’s for pizza
• Tremont Tavern for burgers
• Tony’s or Alleia for Italian
• Milk & Honey or Kenny’s for breakfast
• River Street Deli or Yellow Deli for a great sandwich

3. What is something you hope to accomplish by the end of the year?
Having just graduated college, I hope to take advantage of every opportunity I can. Travel more, meet new people, volunteer, try new hobbies, just experience as much as possible. Also, becoming a better graphic designer while I’m at it.

4. Dogs or cats?
If I’m the owner, I prefer cats, but I like dogs too. I have a very needy cat, and my roommate owns a Husky, so I’m well-versed in both. Honestly, I love any animal that’s cuddly.

5. What inspired you to want to work in a library?
I’ve always wanted to work in a library. I think I was drawn to the organized and quiet environment, surrounded by educated people. When I became a student at Chatt State in 2022, I looked into working at the library, and I’ve been here ever since. I also enjoy helping others, especially students, because I know what it’s like to be clueless and searching for a hidden tab in TigerWeb.

6. Name one thing you think Chatt State students should know about the library.
It’s hard to name just one thing, but we’re not just books! We have free printing, computers, events, research help, therapy dogs, the list goes on. Did I mention free printing?

7. What was the last book you read?
The Secret History by Donna Tartt. It has a lot of ups and downs and features a group of rich college students being… well, rich and reckless. I enjoyed the dark academia atmosphere and the sense of nostalgia it gave, but I was also glad it wasn’t me in their situation. I enjoyed it.

8. What was your favorite class in college?
Typography, it’s the technique of arranging type. I got to create my own font, and now I notice the way text is spaced in EVERYTHING, logos, ads, all of the above. It’s also interesting to know the difference between fonts and which one to use when to use them and I could go on and on.

9. Early bird or night owl?
A little of both. I lean more toward early bird since I can rarely sleep past 10 a.m., but I love staying up late too. Sometimes there’s just not enough time during the day. I enjoy nights better though.

10. What’s your favorite TV show?
Supernatural. I’ve rewatched the prime seasons (1–5) so many times. I love shows with mystery, or anything supernatural, really. I love the nostalgia it gives and of course Jensen Ackles.