CASEY WIGHTON

I am a dedicated secondary school Library Technician and I have been working in a school library setting for 8 years. I have been in an Acting Librarian position for 1.5 years serving the school community, teaching staff and students. My workplace is interesting and diverse as it is a combined community library and school library. 

My favourite part of my job is working with students to help them find a book they will enjoy, and I am passionate about the library being an inclusive and welcoming space for all to feel supported and safe.

My short-term goal upon graduation is to gain employment as a school Library Manager so I can put my personal mark on what I consider the heart of the school. My long-term goal is to further educate myself in archiving as I particularly enjoyed those elective subjects and the professional placement I attended at RMIT Archives.

Please view my LinkedIn profile here https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-wighton-422540148/

Professional Networking Philosophy Statement

Lifelong learning is a key philosophy among information professionals and is a fundamental set of skills taught in a library setting. Continuing professional development is an important part of one’s career progression. It is essential as it allows practitioners to understand and reflect of the evolving nature of GLAM industry by engaging in different delivery modes of learning and competencies by other professionals. Keeping abreast of the sector’s issues and achievements inspires and drives me to become a better and more knowledgeable Librarian.

Professional networking is a main ingredient of professional development and due to the breadth of people’s skills, experience, and knowledge; it can be used as a resource in itself. Developing and maintaining relationships with other professionals can to some extent be intimidating, however, these relationships can play a pivotal role in career progression. Being able to ask questions or gain insight into certain areas can extend your knowledge and experience in a way that cannot be learned in formal education. Being able to contribute to discussions, answer other’s questions or share your own knowledge also contributes to the reciprocal nature of networking and can provide a sense of validation. I have been working in a school library for 8 years and have only recently started to expand my network which has had a positive and motivational impact on me personally and professionally.