Hidden Figures: Librarians
A librarian explains why grad students
should consult her colleagues more often.
Can
you name at least one librarian at your college/university? When was the last
time you frequented the library for purposes other than studying, writing group
sessions, or to snag a caffeinated drink? Be honest… I won’t snitch.
In
my humble opinion, librarians are one of the most underutilized
resources on college/university campuses. I know this from experience. As a
graduate student, I only consulted librarians when I was in a bind or hit a
brick wall… hard. I would have been spared a lot of headache and heartache
early on in my graduate program if I had simply asked for the help I needed.
Instead of seeking assistance from a trained information professional, I stubbornly
spent countless hours searching for articles when it should have only taken me
20 minutes.
When
I finally broke down and asked for guidance, the librarian was super helpful
and showed me how to effectively (and efficiently) conduct searches. At the
time, I did not recognize that there was a science (or method) to searching,
but now I know better.
At
the University of Virginia where I work, there are over 200+ library staff
located across the grounds with expertise in a variety of areas. For example,
there are subject liaisons who are experts in English, music, physics, etc.
There are also those who specialize in virtual reality, 3D printing, learning
technologies, research and data services, rare materials, teaching and learning
and so much more!
Becoming
acquainted with your college/university librarians is not simply a nicety.
Instead, it is a necessity—especially if you would like to maintain your sanity
and boost your scholarship. If you ever need help managing 200+ references
for your thesis (FYI: many libraries offer citation management workshops!),
identifying keywords that will lead to informational goldmines, or would like
to utilize materials that are not currently housed at your institution,
librarians know how to address these issues and more. It is in your very best
interest to become acquainted with a librarian (or some librarians) at your institution
and here’s why:
Librarians 101: How to Effectively Utilize These Hidden
Figures
1.
I
don’t mean to brag, but librarians are smart… really smart. However, if
we do not know an answer, it is not the end of the world. 99.9% of the time, we
know (or can find) someone who does. Plus, we are super savvy at searching,
organizing, and accessing information. If you are feeling overwhelmed about how
to organize
your data, need advice on citation managers, etc., ask a librarian. You’ll be
glad you did.
2.
Librarians
have intimate knowledge of services and resources our
library/libraries offer. Instead of trying to figure out every service/resource
that is available at your college/university library, schedule an appointment
to speak with a librarian or take part in a library orientation. We can
familiarize you with materials and collections that are relevant to your work
and/or personal as well as professional interests.
You
may be wondering about how to approach a librarian...I also wrestled with this
question before I became a librarian. The simple answer is this: approach us as
you would anyone else.
At
the University of Virginia, users can reach librarians via telephone, chat, text
message, email, and in-person. If you would like help from a subject expert
librarian (e.g. education, English, math, etc.), look on your library’s
homepage for the library directory or for a list of subject specialist (or
liaisons) and go from there. That said, it never hurts to go to your campus
library and speak with someone at the front desk. He/she will direct you on
where to go from there. If you cannot (or prefer not) to physically visit your
library, calling the main line and/or sending an email is a lovely way to
start!
3.
Librarians
are here to serve you. However, you don’t pay us a penny for
our help. (Well, maybe through your tuition...) Ask us for help for as long or
as little as you like. This is our JOB.
4.
Librarians
can point you to prime real estate within the library (e.g.
special collections, study
spaces, technological equipment, etc.) and explain borrowing
privileges. If you are a first-year student (or an advanced one), you may
be unaware of the precious gems found in your very own academic library.
5.
Librarians
are not your peers or professors. We are neutral professionals.
As such, we will not hold it against you if you request assistance at the very
last minute. (Though it is in your best interest to seek assistance as soon as
possible so we can ensure that you receive the resources/help you need in a
timely manner.) Again, we are here to serve you. (See #3.) Life happens… we get it.
Need
I say more?
I
can say with 100% confidence that developing relationships with one or more
librarians at your educational institution can serve you well now, throughout
your graduate school career, and beyond.
Source | https://www.insidehighered.com/
Regards
Pralhad
Jadhav
Senior
Manager @ Library
Khaitan & Co
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