February 23, 2011

Describe 2 highlights that caught your attention in our readings or discussions for this week. Why was it significant for you?

One thing that caught my attention was some of the different search techniques. Using AND, OR, and NOT is extremely useful and I think I use it sometimes, but nearly as much as I should. I will be working on improving my searching and also helping the students since many of them really don't know what key words to use when searching.

The other topic that caught my attention was when we were discussing if we really needed any print resources in our reference section. Even thought it's easy to say that everything can be found online or in databases, it is not always possible for students and teachers to get to a computer. Students can check out reference books from the library so if they don't have a computer at home they can do research from a book. Teachers are able to check out reference materials and take to their classroom. i think it is valuable to evaluate the materials in the reference section, make teachers aware of what is there, and discard what is not used.

What do you think about the Big 6?

I think the Big 6 is great. It's a wonderful framework to help student find information. I do think an entire district would have to be onboard in order to make the Big 6 really work how it should. It is something I will bring up in our library meeting to see how the other librarians feel about it, but currently as a district were doing several other programs district wide so I don't know if we're ready for another one yet.

Are you pretty comfortable doing a Reference Interview?

Yes, I feel comfortable doing a Reference Interview and I feel like I am able to help my patrons out. Since starting in November I feel like students are really beginning to feel comfortable with me and trust me in asking questions. Teachers come to me frequently and I try to not only help them, but also follow up with them to make sure things went well for them, did they have any other questions, etc.

How is the Internet Log coming? Questions/concerns?

I think it's going great. I'm doing Web 2.0 Tools which is what my staff is very interested in, so I will be able to use it right away.

Questions about your Online Database Presentation or your Library Lesson? What is your topic?

No questions. I am doing Culture Grams in conjuction with Katelyn. They have recently upgraded some of their features, so I've been having a good time exploring those.

vi.(Louis Question) – How has our class and this week’s activities effected you in your professional life? Discuss two things that you have learned about this week.


One way that this class has effected me is in the way I do my reference interviews. I have worked hard on always finding a solution for the patron. I am not always able to give them exactly what they want, but I am able to help them find something that fits their needs.

Two things I learned in class:
1. There are lot more ways to search for information than I ever imagined.
2. Reference is extremely valuable and I need to think about where I want i it placed in my library and how I want to go about letting the staff
know what is in the library.