the cardigan librarian

la bibliotecaria the library assistant

A self-styled superhero among librarians.

1. Can you tell us about your current position?

I currently work as a public library assistant. I get to do a bit of everything - work the circ desk, plan programs, do a bit of collection development. I am fortunate enough to have a library director that encourages us to share ideas and do things that interest us. I also work as a teaching assistant for an undergraduate bioinformatics course that my library school adviser teaches. I grade papers and answer questions, pick articles for the reading list, and make tutorials as necessary.

2. How did you get into librarianship?

I had no library experience when I started my program. I had been looking to go back to school for about five years. I came across some librarian job postings while my husband was looking for work, and I decided that this field was what I’d been looking for. I started UNT’s program, and got my current public library position a few months later.

3. What work training and education did you have to prepare you for this career?

I’m hoping to get into a position at a medical or academic science library. I studied biology as an undergrad, and I worked for 5 years in the veterinary and environmental fields before starting library school. While at previous jobs, I did some library-related things without realizing it. I created databases, did research, and helped out a lot with web and social media content. While in school, I did an internship in a medical library.

4. What are your favorite and least favorite aspects of the field?

I enjoy being able to do new things and being in a field that is so creative. I also enjoy being around librarians in general. They’re always willing to help or give advice, and they’re fun! Right now, my least favorite aspect is the current job market.

5. What is your advice for readers interested in librarianship?

If you’re already working in a library, always be on the lookout for opportunities to help out and gain some different skills. If not, find a volunteer opportunity that interests you. Get a mentor (or two) if you don’t already have one. These things are especially important if you do your schooling online, like I did. Keep an eye out for opportunities for student awards and scholarships for conferences, too.