As I'm nearly finished with my library science education, I try to focus my extracurricular reading--LinkedIn discussions, INALJ articles, listserv emails, and other publications-- on best practice guidelines for professionals. Last month's NMRT discussion focused on Professional Branding and creating a brand for networking. It's difficult as a student with no professional (paid, non-student) position to feel that I have a grasp on how I'll do in the library world or even my personal brand (or identity). However, difficulty rarely stops a good librarian, so I do my best. Things I've realized that are a part of my Librarian identity: the focus on the user--libraries and service professions/institutions are nonexistent without a user base to support--as well as encouraging the adaptation of libraries to a changing society. I want to be aware of what's out there, be able to effectively evaluate the changes and potential technologies, and make the decisions that will most positively impact my library users. And, I'm doing this by guiding my research, attending various sessions at ALA, searching for continuing education opportunities, and exploring the literature. But what about my identity? Holy cannoli, that's a big question. I've spent so much time on preparing to be a librarian and learning the tricks of the trade that I've had little time for me. Sure, I relax once in awhile with a good read, learning a new board game, volunteering, or playing a video game. I also take walks and read the news when I can. Yet, I regret to inform you that I have not explore any amazing unique hobbies or challenges since August when I started the program. No Zumba classes, no gardening (that's probably a good idea--I'm horrid although I love it), and no creative writing (until now). What else makes me "me?" I suppose my librarian brand or identity feeds into everything else that makes me who I am. And, I don't think I can complain about that. I look forward to ALA Annual, graduation, and the procuring of a career to help me figure out the library stuff so I can work on the rest. In the mean time, I welcome recommendations :)
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Stephanie FreasRecent MLIS graduate & lover of writing. This is a narrative of my first look into the librarian profession. Archives
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