JACKSON, Wis. — Olivia Jaskolski has dedicated decades of her life to books. She has been recognized as one of the first Black law librarians in Wisconsin.
For nearly 40 years, Jaskolski has worked as a law librarian, but books were restricted in her childhood. That’s because she grew up in segregated Louisiana.
“We did not have a library at my elementary school, and I always enjoyed books, but I always enjoyed the library, but Blacks were not allowed to go into the library,” Jaskolski said.
But Jaskolski had a passion for written words. So, in the 1980s, she moved to Wisconsin, where she met her husband, Carl, and became a stepmother.
While working at a temporary job, a horrific event happened. She said she was raped by a coworker.
“It was challenging trying to deal with the trauma, trying to go to school. But I think it’s very important for women, if you have experienced something that is as traumatic as that, to get help,” Jaskolski said.
After intensive therapy, Olivia said she was even more determined to start a career.
She applied for a law library assistant position with Northwestern Mutual without knowing how to use major legal research tools.
Jaskolski would go on to work with Northwestern Mutual for 25 years. She eventually earned a master’s degree in library science.
Her years of dedication to her field were recognized by former First Lady Laura Bush, a librarian herself.
“I did feel powerful that she recognized me and took the time to write a letter to me, a fellow librarian,” Jaskolski said.
Her husband, Carl, described his wife in one word.
“Phenomenal. Because as a female, as to what she’s achieved despite a lot of the challenges and obstacles she had to face. So, just to see what she’s achieved is exciting to me. So yeah, I’m definitely our cheerleader,” he said.
Jaskolski is now the head law librarian at the law firm Von Briesen and Roper. She said she’s still navigating life’s path and hopes her life story teaches women a message.
“Don’t be afraid. Don’t let it keep you from pursuing things or moving forward. Be that woman of empowerment,” she said.
After spending so many years surrounded by books, Jaskolski and her husband have coauthored a novel called “The Long Road Home.
https://spectrumnews1.com/wi/milwaukee/news/2026/03/12/olivia-jaskolski–the-long-road-home
