Daily life at the library branch and participation around the broader library system are significant components of being a library and information profession. In my other Connections pages, I've discussed the ways in which special events and programs have been an important part of my library school experience. The day-to-day responsibilities and happenings may not be quite as glamorous as a large event, yet they often make up the bulk of a library career.
Martin Regional Library
Starting my library career at the Martin Regional Library introduced me quickly to the basics of library service. In my first year, I worked in each of the branches' three departments, with a few months in circulation, some time working in Adult and Reference Services, and finally ending up in the children's area. This large, busy branch is so vital to its local community and I was thankful to be a part of it. In my time at Martin, I had the opportunity to help with programs big and small, serve customers by helping them with computer troubleshooting, printing challenges, and readers' advisory, lead our summer Teen Team volunteers, and be part of a large and dedicated staff. Past and current leadership like Rebecca Howard, Kat LeFevre, Rita Fofah, Heather Martinez, Marie Welden, Jason Little, and Amy Stephens have made Martin a successful and vital part of the East Tulsa Community. Herman and Kate Kaiser Library (HKK)
Transitioning to a smaller branch within TCCL, the Herman and Kate Kaiser Library, was a big adjustment! With my promotion to Youth Librarian to work with Manager Jason Patteson, I was part of the leadership team instead of simply one of the staff. I was also in charge of all children's programming and materials instead of being part of a children's team. While these changes were challenging, especially in the midst of working on my MLIS, my experiences at Martin and in the MLIS program had helped to prepare me for this step. TCCL: Children's Services
As the Bilingual Children's Associate at Martin and now the Youth Librarian at HKK, I have been a part of the Children's Services team at TCCL, led by Children's Services Coordinator Laura Raphael. At least four times a year, the children's staff of TCCL meets together in person to receive news and updates, have professional development, and learn from each other. These meetings foster camaraderie and sharing among staff from all over the county. I love learning from my colleagues and sharing about ideas and tips that have worked for me at Storytime and in working with children and families. Developing relationships with fellow children's staff is one of the great parts of working in a large system like TCCL. Catching up before the big group meetings, observing storytimes, and meeting up in smaller groups are just a few of the ways we try to learn from each other. Over the last year, I have had the opportunity to mentor one of my colleagues from Martin, Bilingual Children's Associate Stephanie Huaman. She was interested in learning more about how to plan programs beyond Storytime and to prepare for applying for her MLIS. I have loved supporting her as she's grown and learned over the past year. Sharing with and supporting children's services colleagues is one of my favorite parts of being a Youth Librarian. |