Through Shelfwright, Rachel Waldron applies core library and information science practices, including collection development, organization, classification and readers' advisory, in a private-sector context. While the setting differs from a traditional library, the underlying goals remain the same: helping people engage with information and ideas that are meaningful to them.

The knowledge and skills Waldron developed at the University of Washington Information School provided a framework for analyzing user needs, organizing information and building collections — competencies that have enabled her to create a business grounded in the principles of library and information science while serving audiences outside of conventional library environments.

The idea for Shelfwright emerged from concepts Waldron encountered during her studies at the Information School. Coursework in Controlled Vocabulary and Cataloging introduced her to systems for organizing information, developing coherent collections and improving discoverability. Those principles now inform how she approaches each project, from selecting materials to creating organizational structures that make collections easier to use and navigate.

Waldron also credits librarian and author Nancy Pearl with shaping her interest in readers' advisory and collection development. Learning how librarians connect people with books that align with their interests helped her understand the value of building collections around the needs and preferences of specific individuals and communities. That perspective continues to influence her work today.