Where are you now? What’s your work situation like, and what path did you take this last year?
I’m still at the international law firm. Instead of a traditional librarian role, I am a Knowledge Systems Analyst, which means I concentrate on customization of content, patron training, research, analysis and presentations for product reviews and trials, instructional development and training in support of workflow and efficiency measures, and systems re-design and analysis.
Looking at last year’s check-in, have any of your attitudes changed?
No. I still believe that enthusiasm and confidence are really good traits to have.
What’s your best advice for job hunters?
I’ll repeat what I said last year: Be on the lookout all the time for opportunities to enhance your career. You are single-handedly your biggest advocate. I’m still seeing a lot of job-searchers get stuck looking for jobs with “librarian” in the title, instead of trying to find something that showcases our varied skillset.
Anything else you want to share with us?
Be realistic about the job market for librarians. It’s not the responsibility of a job site to find you a job, it’s your responsibility to go and get one. Branch out into other things. Don’t let awards or accolades define who you are and what you bring to the profession. Be willing to walk away from something that isn’t working for you –financially, professionally, emotionally.
Ta-Shiré is willing to answer questions you post in the comments section.
Hiring Librarians 