A look back...the first ePort

I never thought it possible to learn so much in seven days, but 504 showed me that anything can happen in Library School. Before this program started, I was nervous to put myself in a position to be judged. Judged by professors and other students, but this past week has shown me that SIRLS is not your typical graduate program. It was a great experience to meet with all of the other students starting this experience with me and to meet most of the professors. Through all of the modules covered, I know that I have a great base of knowledge for every class that I will take through my career at SIRLS.

One of the most challenging projects completed during the entire four weeks of 504 was the Issue Paper . After the mountains of readings, the most difficult task was trying to pick just one issue to tackle in a short paper. Despite the difficulties, I learned a great deal from the experience of searching through databases and gathering information about my topic, children’s access to materials in public libraries. Additionally, I experienced first-hand the difficulties presented by the Library of Congress Classification system as well as confusion in dealing with Library of Congress Subject Headings. I think my experience researching my topic gave me more insight into how a patron feels when using an unfamiliar classification system. I definitely appreciate my own research skills developed, although a little rusty, from my job at my college’s library. I look forward to building on my research skills and finding new and better ways to access information resources.

While the readings prior to the seven day intensive were overwhelming, I have never before enjoyed readings for a class. It was refreshing to discover that I have chosen the correct field for myself. Finally, classes with content that I really want to delve into and dissect, subjects and information that I can form opinions on and defend because I am passionate about what I am learning. The different topics, like ethical issues and values for Information Professionals and diversity in libraries, really opened my eyes to the depth that SIRLS curriculum goes into. Additionally, I read about the economics of libraries and intellectual freedom and censorship. There was such a wide-range of topics and issues it was exciting and awe-inspiring at the same time.

Before 504, I thought I wanted to work in an Academic Library or a Law Library. I loved being in college and working in my college’s libraries was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I also really love the law, how it changes and evolves as our culture changes amazes me. I thought an Academic Law Library would be the perfect place for me, but 504 opened my eyes a little more. I realized during 504 that I do not want to be a practitioner. While I love libraries and everything the institution of a library stands for, working in a library is not what I see myself doing. I love the issues surrounding libraries - intellectual freedom, copyright, children’s access. Through the professional development modules and our group project on types of libraries, this course helped me see that I have other options and after I complete my degree, I intend to apply to either Law School or to the SIRLS Doctoral Program. Of course, I know that with every course I take, my professional goals may also change; that is part of the excitement.

Technological advances affect everyone everyday. However, even with my experience working in libraries, I did not realize how much technology affected a librarian. After 504, I know that I have to beef up my technological skills. Even if I do not want to be a practitioner, RSS feeds, blogs, wikis, xml, and that which has yet to come, will play a part in my professional career.

I have never experienced a course as intense or as fulfilling as 504. By the end of our week in Tucson, I knew that I had developed a true understanding of the basic elements of information resources and library science. I am incredibly excited to begin my journey here at SIRLS and cannot wait to see, hear, and read more about the world of Information Resources and Library Science.