Deborah's reflections

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Deborah Nicklin

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Part A: Attendance

Part B: Essay and Reflection

A well-resourced information agency is a successful information agency.

“A strong and united library field powering literate, informed and participative societies.”         

International Federation of Library Association and Institutions vision statement (n.d.).

The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) vision statement above focuses on the fundamental human right of people worldwide to acquire access to information (IFLA, 2017).  I would like to structure the report under the first four development headings that appear under the vision statement, as stated by IFLA:

Libraries provide opportunity for all. (IFLA, 2013)

The virtual study visits 202130(VSV) have all presented a diverse range of functions to cater for diverse needs across communities in Australia. From the lone practitioner Lauren Gobbett managing the archives for the Royal Adelaide Show and the historical records of Mitsubishi, through to Sally Turbitt at a large institution at the University of Newcastle, Ourimbah requiring a staff of more than eighty people. Each of the presenters described various ways they provided their communities with the resources and information necessary for the patrons to achieve their goals. This also included safe and comfortable work areas. For example, Paul Kloppenborg at the William Inglis Institute responded to student surveys requesting quiet areas and longer opening hours. Students use swipe cards to access the TAFE library after hours and a large pod provided the study rooms for students to work together or study quietly (Kloppenborg, 2021). Thus, providing greater opportunities for students to access the library.

All the information agencies in the VSV described the dynamic nature of their collections and how staff provide for the needs of their patrons. For example, Rebecca Muir and Emeke Anele from the University of Victoria amended the availability of some special reserve items to fit the new ‘block model’ the university has adopted (Anele & Muir, 2021). Another example is the University of Newcastle has provided study rooms for parents of young children. Within the rooms are toys for children to play with while the parent has an opportunity to study. Rebecca Muir and Emeka Anele from Victoria University library provide services to support students with referencing, research projects, and using the library management system well to locate items. These classes were also adapted to zoom meetings during pandemic lockdowns for seamless service for students (Anele & Muir, 2021). These examples demonstrate how staff are resourcing their agencies to allow the greatest possible opportunities for their broad range of patrons.

Libraries empower people for their own self-development. (IFLA, 2013)

Education in school libraries is framed by the Australian School Library Association (ASLA) and the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) joint policy. The purpose of this policy states success will be achieved through high-quality library services and resources (ALIA, 2016). Lori Korodaj and Holly Godfree from Tuggeranong College in Canberra have worked together to develop a variety of programs, services, and teacher support to achieve the ASLA/ALIA policy. They advocate for students by actively supporting teachers with team teaching of research skills, building trust, and a comprehensive website providing access 24/7. Despite a few failures of holding classes for students where nobody turned up, Lori and Holly tried a different tack by changing the name of classes and recording them for lockdown (Godfree & Korodaj, 2021). Their persistence to support the teachers and students is infectious. Their discussions around making hallway conversations count and encouraging teachers they work with to spread the word are simple and effective advocacy lessons.

Libraries offer access to the world’s knowledge. (IFLA, 2013)

Johnson (2018) refers to the ‘universe of published materials’ (p. 119) available in the world currently. No single collection can contain every item published. Increasing costs and greater expenses pressure library managers to decide on the best resources to include within budgets. Google has provided a major boost to information access and there is a misconception by users that all information is now available online (Ballard, 2012). The work of Lauren Gobbitt who is the archivist for two organisations: Royal Adelaide Show and Mitsubishi, is gradually building up public access through the South Australian Royal Show website. Lauren described the slow process of researching, recording, and building the large historical collection online (Gobbitt, 2021). This is certainly a case of a well-resourced agency in terms of personnel to ensure the current collection stored in boxes is carefully managed as part of the website here. Lauren’s dedication and attention to detail ensure the longevity of the collection and availability to the community digitally.

Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums (GLAM), combined for a project to improve digital access by the public to cultural collections. ALIA supported this project for two years, 2016-2018, to increase digitisation. Funding and training were provided to assist many varied institutions with the capacity to increase access. Therefore, providing greater National access to more artworks, items, objects, and documents.

Perhaps the odd one out in VSV is the MONA Museum of Art in Tasmania. A privately owned multiple-use museum with public access is truly offering access to the world’s hidden knowledge.  Dr Lucy Hawthorne manages the extensive library collection and curates the compilation purely to the whims of the owner, David Walsh. MONA is an art gallery, museum, library, restaurant, garden, and architectural display. Library items are not for loan but may be used for research on application. This is quite different from any other library.

Librarians provide expert guidance (IFLA, 2013)

The 202130 VSV information professionals consistently demonstrated examples of expertise in their field. Their ability to adapt and improve services to their patrons as the need arises reveals ongoing commitment and passion. A global pandemic created a shift and opportunity to alter and enhance their ability to continue to connect to their communities. Thus, supporting the global vision of the IFLA vision statement. These information agencies are certainly well resourced in terms of trained professionals in providing high-quality services for patrons.

Conclusion     

The wider information community is incredibly diverse and requires a range of competencies to function. They vary from very small one-person operations to large, well-funded institutions serving many patrons. GLAM peak bodies support and connect repositories of information to offer greater access to cultural information for all. On examination of a variety of libraries, a well-resourced agency in terms of suitably trained, passionate, and committed information professionals is a more valuable asset than a collection on its own.  

Reflection

Study visits 202130 highlighted the amazing variety and talent required to acquire, develop, manage, and document information. I was able to see in practice the value of my learning in Master of Education (Teacher Librarianship) in the field. Themes of advocacy, collection development, leadership, and tailoring services to the patrons were commonalities between the different types of information agencies. The overall value of the dedication of information professionals to resource and tailor their services to their community was a focal point.

The Students Need School Libraries campaign (2020), refers to several research projects quantifying the value of a qualified teacher librarian and adequate funding for school libraries. The impact of good library services, resourcing, and collaborative partnerships among school staff support improved results in information literacy for students (Students Need School Libraries, 2020). Better results are achieved by qualified staff supporting teachers and students with the resources necessary.

Change is a major factor in the information agencies of the 21^st century. Digital access and promotion feature significantly in the institutions in VSV202130. Consumers of information often expect open and online access to information. However, the cost of digital access is an ongoing factor. Library staff needs to be creative in their use of technology to maximise its potential to support patrons in their information needs. The VSV information professionals demonstrated adaptation to change and high-quality examples of creative technology use.

The study visits have highlighted the variety and value of information professionals. The enthusiasm, passion, and genuine support for their communities is wonderful and I hope to replicate these values. The visits have encouraged me to focus on providing the best service possible in the school where I work.

Word count: 1347       

References

Anele, E.& Muir, R. (2021, April 14). Libraries west – Victoria university [Presentation]. ETL507, Interact 2. https://charlessturt.zoom.us/rec/share/sPvHo3Ut_mNtN- qVtV_IjfRY8xxS6f3RNLmWYqBEp73gai2hpMMgIdG0WfEMjMeu.4eDYHq4PQu TGkb3f

Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA). (n.d.). ALIA-ASLA joint statement on library and information services in schools. https://www.alia.org.au/about-alia/policies-standards-and-guidelines/alia-asla-joint-statement-library-and-     information-services-schools

Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA). (n.d.). GLAM peak bodies. https://www.alia.org.au/which-sector-are-you-interested/glam-peak-bodies

Ballard, T. (2012). Google this. Science Direct. https://www-sciencedirect-he development of com.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/book/9781843346777/google-this

Gobbett, L. (2021, April 15). Lauren Gobbett archivist & historian [Presentation]. ETL507, Interact 2. https://charlessturt.zoom.us/rec/play/kLMCBM7YhM0Ju4vHtQB4Te9_Mqrf- 4asZwBCyg2kSby2dUkxb2PUNR_IpmaFh9dr8uRtxo_uPhADAinH.1G467aWiNw2            PiedN?continueMode=true

Godfree, H. & Korodaj, L. (2021, April 19). Loi Korodaj and Holly Godfree – teacher librarians [Presentation]. ETL507, Interact 2. https://charlessturt.zoom.us/rec/share/8k823qFUp- Lkq6k7BXhGqMUOcCFgnJl_YVCOWCtAcW- X3DSX9_ncrCYjKTGGNsKC.HpTHRgEfABUbW8bh

Hawthorne, L. (2021, April 20). MONA museum library [Presentation]. ETL507, Interact 2. https://charlessturt.zoom.us/rec/share/ZPN9dR4NHX7RmlkF7Um7ZpPqlTAUSqw47 Ta404HCmKUIwIDweDzrOray2GAsi7I.oU5ePGj-3iOvLJzi

International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions. (n.d.). Global vision. https://www.ifla.org/globalvision

International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions. (2013). IFLA statement on libraries and development (August 2013). https://www.ifla.org/publications/ifla-statement-on-libraries-and-development

Johnson, P. (2018). Fundamentals of Collection Development and Management: Vol. Fourth edition. ALA Editions. http://web.a.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/ehost/ebookviewer/ebook/bmxlYmtfXzE4NTY5ODNfX0FO0?sid=7d99971a-cd64-4a85-a2bd-3ac829d9608f@sdc-v- sessmgr02&vid=0&format=EB&rid=1

Kloppenborg, P. (2021, April 13). Manager – Learning and Information Services William Angliss Institute [Presentation]. ETL507, Interact 2. https://charlessturt.zoom.us/rec/share/IhJ3v7Kt_nqj35Y3BPbrZmfGaOlqTyeQ0NAxp            -DnmtxKs_him4V4wuZeR29Gr9hq.xrASrXydXlTwi_95

Lake Tuggeranong College. (n.d.). Lake Tuggeranong College library. https://ltclibrary.com/

RA & HS Museum and Archives. (n.d.). The show museum. https://www.rahshistory.com.au/#

Students Need School Libraries. (2020). About us. https://studentsneedschoollibraries.org.au/about/

Turbitt, S. (2021, April 21). Team Leader, Client Services – Ourimbah, University Library. [Presentation]. ETL507, Interact 2. https://charlessturt.zoom.us/rec/share/GeSI2jmxO8KOLZebTwrPWz4CMvt4EO9k– LkcIzpQSFSjKdEsMp8KBNrfciJMfI.B6pBPZnv-YnKIGlg