Yesterday I was elected Vice-President and President-Elect of the Northern California Consortium of Psychology Libraries. To those of you who didn't even know that I was a psychology librarian, this will come as some surprise. Surprise!
I was nominated, and elected, by the Head Librarians of the Northern California Consortium of Psychology Libraries, of whom I am one. I'll serve as VP for the coming year, and then I'll take up the president's gavel at this time next year. This sort of arrangement is not unusual for elected offices in academic and non-profit settings. What is unusual is that it should be me!
I should back up a bit. I haven't talked about this new job I got last summer, but since I've come this far, I might as well tell you about it. Also, since I'm told that I appear to be having far too much fun, let this serve as notice that it's balanced by a meaningful, challenging and satisfying work life.
About my job: Until last summer, I was a simple reference librarian at UC Berkeley. Now, I'm the Head Librarian at a graduate school of psychology in Berkeley. In short, I manage all aspects of a small academic library. In the words of the ad placed in the Chronicle of Higher Education, my:
[t]wo major responsibilities are: 1) to provide reference and research support to students dissertation work; and 2) to identify and develop appropriate online technology. Other responsibilities include: collection development in conjunction with faculty; education of students in the use of scholarly materials; and integration of web-based and other electronic resources into the library collection and reference services....The successful applicant will have excellent analytical and interpersonal communication skills; will evidence both professional initiative and flexibility in dealing with diverse populations; and will exhibit a thorough knowledge of computer systems, particularly as they relate to online library functions. Other qualifications include: MLIS from an ALA accredited program or equivalent degree; experience in providing reference services; familiarity with the concepts, goals and methods of information literacy and library instruction; and ability to evaluate and use appropriate technology to improve library service, including the development of online library resources such as tutorials, surveys and guides.
I'm responsible for a whole lot more than I ever have been before, and the challenges and the lessons are coming fast. My skill set is expanding rapidly, as I need to both be aware of every aspect of the library's day-to-day functioning, while also formulating a vision of where I see the library going. It's also my first time supervising people. I've hired several new people, everyone working in the library seems happy, and I think I'm a fair and effective manager.
I'm finding this a wonderful place to work: The staff and faculty are great, I love working with the students, and it's a dream come true professionally—and only two years out of library school! All that said, in general, I won't be writing much here about my work. If I've gleaned an interesting lesson, personally or professionally, while on the job, I may write about it, but I'll always be fully protective of the institution and the individuals I work with, by doing nothing to undermine confidentiality, anonymity or reputations.
So there you have it. I love being a librarian. :-)