Date: July 29, 2025
It gives me great joy to introduce the Bishop Payne Library’s newest staff members, Bianca C. Farmer and Jenna Patterson!
Jenna Patterson, JD, MLIS is the new Discovery and Technology Services Librarian, providing oversight of all of the library’s electronic and technical services. She earned a B.S. from New College at the University of Alabama and a J.D. from American University’s Washington College of Law. She holds a Master of Library and Information Science degree from the University of Alabama and has worked as a Children’s Library Associate at the DC Public Library and as the Law Librarian at the Federal Communications Commission, among other library positions. As an Episcopalian for more than 15 years, Jenna reports that working for VTS is a special experience, and she is thoroughly enjoying her new role. An avid reader and library patron since she was a baby, Jenna’s childhood hero was Roald Dahl’s bookworm character, Matilda. Jenna enjoys spending time with her Pug named Walt Whitman (Wally), writing letters, watching TV shows and movies she’s seen a million times, and hosting home-cooked dinner parties in her home.
Bianca C. Farmer is the new Library Administrative Assistant, providing essential clerical and logistical support throughout the library. Originally from Washington, DC, she holds a bachelor’s degree in African American Studies and a master’s degree in History, both from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. She is currently pursuing a second master’s degree in Library and Information Science at the Catholic University of America, with the goal of becoming an archivist. Bianca reports that she has genuinely enjoyed her new role and feels grateful to work alongside such a dedicated and supportive team. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting, diamond painting, playing the Nintendo Switch, and adult coloring – creative hobbies that help her to relax and unwind.
Both Bianca and Jenna have quickly proven themselves to be essential members of the Bishop Payne Library team. If you have not met them already, I hope you will have the opportunity to meet them soon.
The Rev. Joseph D. Thompson, Ph.D.
Seminary Librarian