Demonstrate Leadership
by displaying vision and adaptability ,
openness to new ideas, and risk-taking.
openness to new ideas, and risk-taking.
813 - By the Book: an Observation of the Lawrence Public Library Reference Desk
Observing the reference desk first hand is a valuable experience applicable to so many areas within the library. This experience helped me broaden the scope of my vision for service beyond public service desk of a library and into technical services where I work. Technical services is an area of the library that is just beginning to branch out from formerly very isolated contexts. As that happens, necessary collaboration is not always a smooth process. I see now that the skills I developed for the reference interview (listening, determining the “why” of the information need with sensitivity, etc) is just as important in interpersonal relationships with my library colleagues as it is with the patrons we serve. It ensures that new collaborations are fruitful and something people will want to continue doing. Learning these skills in various contexts throughout the program has helped me demonstrate leadership by example in my own work and in effect lead positive change.