After completing my Master's Degree in Library and Information Services and as a result my SJSU SLIS Professional Portfolio, I have had the unique experience of going through an in-depth Master's Program and, as is required in that program, a reviewal process in this E-Portfolio Project that has allowed me to leave my experience acutely aware of my accomplishments and strengths.
My focus during the MLIS program was Young Adult Librarianship. As a result, I have taken and passes (with the highest of marks) core courses in Information Retrieval, Information and Society, and Information Management. As electives, where I could really focus on YA studies, I took many courses in young adult and children's materials, programming and services for young adults, and controversial literature for young adults. What's more, all these courses were rich in collection development for children and young adults. These classes armed me with a wealth of ideas for services and programs, springboards for training for colleagues, awareness of materials and current trends, and even youth technological trends and how to use them. And, as a result, am well-prepared to work in the Youth Librarian field, most especially Young Adult Librarianship.
In addition to my focus, I branched out and took courses that would both support Young Adult Librarianship as well as support me in any area I may find work in, in a public library. As we all know, economic challenges are unavoidable in today's Library World. So, I took classes that would support me wherever I may be needed. I took classes in Library Services in Racially and Economically Diverse Communities, Intellectual Freedom, Special Libraries (Motion Picture & Television), Beginning Cataloging and Classification and Reference Librarianship. These courses introduced me to the necessary theory with textbooks and articles, that librarians need as their foundation. There is a reason, I have found, after completing this program, that a Librarian is required to hold such Master's Degree. The breadth of knowledge needed to navigate through this world is complex and depended on many outside variables. Without a solid foundation in the basics, a librarian can't rise to the occasion, "weather the storm" (so to speak) of the inherit nature of information and technology, and continue to grow as an expert. With this core, I am better prepared to serve the public as an information expert. But I am in no means finished learning. I believe learning is lifelong. Some textbooks, which ignited a lasting fire in me, such as the Radical Reads by Professor Joni Bodart and Everything is Miscellaneous by David Weinberger, had a profound affect on who I am as I enter the professional world. Other influences were more personal, in the way of professional input, from Veteran Librarians and Professors that introduced me to hands-on practice and background, which I took with the highest respect. Some bonds, and professional connections I have made in this program, will last me through my career as we stay connected through modern technology.
During the program I was not only introduced to theory that was both mind boggling and enlightening, but I was also introduced to technological tools such as Blogger, iMovie, Wikis and Powerpoint (just to name a few) that have become second nature practice now. I have created multi-media presentations via Powerpoint and Youtube, as well as, created Pathfinders and Databases (most of which are included in this E-Portfolio) through Blogger.
My growth plan is in direct result of my educational experience. I plan on securing an entry level job in a Public Library. The public library is my personal calling and key to contributing to the protection of everyone's right to information. I hope that with my first job I am not only able to use the skills I have developed in this program but I hope to springboard into a rich, hands on training experience with/in Reference, Cataloging, Outreach, and every other facet of the Library. Having working experience, since 2002 in libraries and since 1997 in bookstores (as well as having a progressive undergraduate education and teaching background and now a Master's Degree in Library and Information Science), I hope to apply ALL of my background to synthesize myself into a cutting-edge librarian who is passionate for Information Science and ready to begin the learning process! Because, although my schooling is over for now (until the next journey as I pursue my Doctorate), my the journey has really just begun.
In conclusion, after reviewing my accomplishments, I am surprised that although it was a lot of work, I am sad to leave the program. It was such a rich learning experience, that although I may be closing a chapter, I am opening a door to the future: the assignments I have completed will no doubt be put to use in the field and in my professional development. I look forward to attending conferences and workshops continue that line of education.
Thank you for reading my E-Portfolio and spending the time to familiarize yourself with my background and skills.
~Courtney B. Lerner
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