By far, my biggest takeaway this semester has been the necessity of being a lifelong learner and staying up to date on modern technologies, especially as they relate to the school library. I often get overwhelmed I’m tasked with learning how to use a new form of technology and I typically just stick to what I know. I’ve learned in this class if I want to be competitive in job market, and if I just want to be all-around good at what I do, I need to go out of my way to learn new tools of the trade.
One way I plan on applying this takeaway is by signing up for Google Certification and Adobe Certification. I may not have time to do this until I complete my degree, but the latter is always something I’ve wanted to do, and I believe both of those areas will help me better market my skillset.
I also want to explore local library makerspaces and other local spots that have interesting technology that libraries might find useful. I’m very fortunate to be a patron of the Richland County Library in Columbia, as their main branch has really fantastic makerspaces. Living in Columbia in general is a huge blessing, as there are many local programs and classes that would allow me to become better versed in what’s out there.
Another takeaway from this semester has been the importance of forming a healthy and diverse information diet. I have access to my parents’ Apple News+ subscription, but prior to this semester, I didn’t really take advantage of it. I’m now attempting to check it at least once a day and keep up with local news primarily, but also national and international news. I like having access to a variety of news outlets that I can easily switch between so I can get multiple perspectives. Much like being well-versed in technology, it is also my job as an information science professional to be well-versed in news media and current events.
Overall, this class has been extremely fruitful for me. I have learned a great deal about practical ways I can be a better librarian. I want to continue being a learner of technology and a listener of current events and information. I hope that I can teach my students both how to use technology and how to cultivate a healthy information diet.
