I currently work 3 library-related jobs:
These positions have been invaluable in helping me become the librarian I am today. At Union School, I've learned the ins and outs of being a media specialist: cataloging and processing books, circulation, weeding, reader's advisory, collection development, arranging author visits and book fairs, library promotion, and working with students. I've helped students individually with selecting books, taught group lessons on digital storytelling and database use, arranged an after-school event, and collaborated with teachers to find appropriate materials. I've also created a library wiki, which contains pathfinders, instructions for research, Google tips, and more. My goal is to help students learn to love reading, but also learn to use technology appropriately, conduct research, and evaluate information. I want them to become critical thinkers and true 21st Century Learners.
Links to the Union School Wiki, my library Mission Statement, and my Teaching Philosophy can be found on the sidebar.
At Rutherford Public Library, I work daily with people to help them conduct research. Whether it’s genealogy research or help with school assignments, I use my expertise to help discover what they need. I also use these opportunities as “teaching moments” and show people how to use the internet and databases rather than just handing them the information. High school and college students are particularly impressed to learn about our available databases and ebooks.
I also work as an Online Peer Mentor for Rutgers University, where I help incoming online MLIS students become acclimated to the program. I help guide them through orientation and registration, answer questions, and stream recorded lectures and student meetings online so the students can feel like “part of the campus”. We also use a number of Web 2.0 tools like Facebook, Google Groups, and wikis to build online communities for the students.