Knowing Your Library

In one way or another, we all attempt to drown our sorrows, and some of us may appeal to shelves of books to vindicate us and comfort us. As Shakespeare writes: “Come and take choice of all my library and so beguile thy sorrow.” We, as the academic library staff servicing our patrons, will often steer students clear from the academic grief which arises from the well-known disease of procrastination or neglectfulness. The broader aspect of servicing patrons, however, lies upon our knowledge and familiarity of the library resources and services. It would be appropriate to go so far as to say that our reputation of excellence customer service depends on this knowledge.

Get to Know the Library Around You

Cultivate or renew your knowledge of your library. What are the most commonly used sources in your reference collection? Explore the vast types of materials located here and become familiar with the specialties of the library and what topic(s) best serve the average student. Take some time to get to know your oversized book collection; how can these be dusted off and used to aid students? What about the various magazines and periodicals that your library subscribes to? How can they help a student research current events or issues on American politics? You will be surprised by the variety of subjects entertained within these covers. Where are the quiet nooks and crannies in your library? These are only a few questions to get you started.

Get to Know Online Library Resources

Familiarize yourself with your library databases and online resources. Trace the relation between “frequently asked research questions” and your ability to connect students with the online access of various materials. Explore and memorize the digital library collection available through your state website. Fortunately, these online links provide a thorough knowledge of general and specific topics, ranging from websites for book lovers to vast historical databases and test practice sites. Along the same note, makes sure to renew your knowledge of the plethora of information available via government websites. Looking for health statistics, historical pictures, oral histories, records, job information, or housing opportunities? They have you covered.

Get to Know Your Student Population

Savor the mission of your library and the mission statement of your institution. How does it apply to your everyday service of patrons? What does your institution value and work towards? The students at your school are being cultivated with that focus in mind (hopefully) and, ideally, the library resources, services, and staff should reflect that. Keep a mental record of your “regular” students; explore the diversity that is represented on your campus and how you can meet individual needs. How many student names do you know? What and how many ethnic groups are enrolled? Think of some new ways you can connect students with staff, other students, and most importantly, the resources they are looking for.

As the American Library Association states, “when you absolutely positively have to know, ask a librarian.” Libraries are a place of knowledge; a place where ideas are presented, explored, critiqued, and created. It is an environment which is meant to uphold the American ideals of free speech and the unity of diversity. Let it also be a place where patrons (students) will find what they need and be pushed towards excellence so that they, too, can answer someone's question. So here’s to the library. Here’s to assisting students at midnight on finals week. Here’s to making a difference one book (or website) at a time.