Part A: Attendance
Virtual Study Visit’s attended:
- Thursday 27th April 2023, 1-2pm with Daniel Wee; Rare Books Collection, State Library of Victoria.
- Thursday 27th April 2023, 7-8pm with Lucy Hawthorne; The Mona Library.
- Monday 1st May 2023, 7-8pm with Lori K and Holly G; Lake Tuggeranong College.
- Wednesday 3rd May 2023, 10-11am with Janet V and Michael S; City of Sydney Archives.
Part B: Industry perspectives and reflection
POST ONE – The Influence of Technology in Information Agencies
With the technological boom of the 21st Century, information agencies have begun to rethink how their services are provided. No longer bound by physical spaces and manual technologies, information specialists can now utilize the digital landscape and subsequent technologies to extend their services beyond traditional methods (Eje & Dashu, 2018, p. 3).
Providing Access to Technology
One way in which information agencies utilize the digital landscape is through the provision of technology. Van Dijk comments that information agencies that provide equitable access to technology help to lessen the digital divide, allowing patrons to access technology that may otherwise be inaccessible to them outside of the agency (2017, p. 1). In libraries and archives, such as the Lake Tuggeranong College library (LTC) and the City of Sydney Archives (CSA), modern computer-based information systems have transformed traditional cataloguing methods, resource accessibility and patron servicing (VSV Lecture 5 & 7, 2023). Additionally, these establishments embrace BYO technology, online learning, and digitized services.
In contrast, the Mona is very analogue in its provision of resources for its visitors; as Hawthorne stated, it is not beholden to the visitors but to the proprietor’s needs, David Walsh (VSV Lecture 3, 2023). Despite this, the Mona encourages visitors to use their mobile devices to access the museum’s geo-location app for more information on its exhibitions. Sadly, this application is not available for the library collection. Similarly, Wee stated that the Rare Books Collection (RBC) are “Luddites” regarding technology access for its patrons (VSV Lecture 2, 2023).
Providing Support through Technology
Most information agencies have a plethora of resources that can be accessed digitally. With the influx of work-from-home schemes and online learning due to COVID-19, many information agencies now engage with their patrons through digital tools. The RBC, Mona, LTC, and CSA all utilize their comprehensive websites, email and phone contacts, or online bookings to connect with their patrons (VSV Lecture 2, 3, 5 & 7, 2023). Tools such as Google Classroom, Zoom, and YouTube have also been employed to support and connect with patrons when in-person services cannot be provided. LTC tailors its learning experiences so students can learn on Google Classroom through webinars and social networking (VSV Lecture 5, 2023). Similarly, the RBC offers a YouTube playlist from the ‘World of the Book’ exhibition (State Library of Victoria, YouTube). The Mona has a YouTube Channel highlighting their various events and exhibitions (Mona Museum, YouTube).
Digitization of resources is another way in which information professionals can utilize technology to support their patrons (Dhule, 2018, p. 312). The CSA prioritizes the digitization of the collection and their virtual reading room as a means of support for their patrons (VSV Lecture 7, 2023). Neither the RBC nor the Mona prioritizes digitizing their collections, with Wee stating that time and cost deter digitalization (VSV Lecture 2 & 3, 2023).
Connecting to Patrons through Technology
Information agencies not only utilize technology to support their patrons, but they also use it to connect with them socially. Information agencies are harnessing social media to communicate with current and new users. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are a few media applications information professionals choose to connect with their patrons socially (Sabat, 2021). Through social media, information professionals can be present in the online community, market their collections or exhibitions, provide customer service, deliver teaching and learning opportunities, and perform outreach to those who may otherwise be inaccessible (Taylor & Francis Group, 2023). The RBC, the Mona Museum, LTC, and the CSA have an online presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where the patrons can access information on events and other important information.
Reference List – Post 1
Dhule, S. (2018). Digitization of Libraries. Benefits and challenges. Knowledge Librarian: An International Peer Reviewed Bilingual E-Journal of Library and Information Science, Special Issue, January 2018. http://www.klibjlis.com/sp2018jan51.pdf
Eje, O. C. & Dashu, T.Y. (2018). Transforming Library and Information Services Delivery Using Innovation Technologies. Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal), 2018, 2036.
http://digitalcommons.unl.edu/libphilprac/2036
Hawthorne, L. (2023). Virtual Study Visit Lecture 3: Mona. 27th of April 2023. https://charlessturt.zoom.us/rec/share/oCpvryLtFdLq69o8gqTebYoXpffIKmC9XtcRL4lkI9GSQPChOCiLy_z1gtQl1ehl.oBvXtJHp-PGx_RC_
Korodaj, L. & Godfree, H. (2023). Virtual Study Visit Lecture 5: Lake Tuggeranong College. 1st of May, 2023. http://antispam.csu.edu.au:32224/?dmVyPTEuMDAxJiZlYWY1OGI4ZjQ1OWVjMWE1NT02NDRGOTFERF81NDc1N18xMzQxNl8xJiY3OWEyMWQ2MmUxMWU3NTQ9MTMzMyYmdXJsPWh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGY2hhcmxlc3N0dXJ0JTJFem9vbSUyRXVzJTJGcmVjJTJGc2hhcmUlMkZlSW9jNElUQ092MTZmYmFuTE8tYU5kOWFoNWhuTE9LcG9YSFlQWE5HR0FFWHdNc1dyb2FuWjRmNzFNRHZsZUZhJTJFUVdSdzBBRnVGRjNlMjhUNQ==
Mona Museum. (Various dates). MONA – Museum of Old and New Art, YouTube page. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqxa1BQROiPYxhhqmLy8uEw
Sabat, Y. (2021). #Library: Using social media to reach your audience. https://www.ebsco.com/blogs/novelist/library-using-social-media-reach-your-audience
State Library of Victoria. (Various dates). The World of the Book, YouTube Playlist. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYIlNPTar9J7CjYP9cRqOvwDZqqtlXbPA
Taylor & Francis Group. (2023). Librarian Resources: How libraries are applying social media. Informa UK Limited. https://librarianresources.taylorandfrancis.com/insights/library-advocacy/how-libraries-are-applying-social-media/#:~:text=Websites%20such%20as%20YouTube%20are,as%20promote%20what%20is%20available.
Van Dijk, J.A.G.M. (2017). Digital Divide: Impact of Access. The International Encyclopedia of Media Effects, 2017, John Wiley & Sons. DOI: 10.1002/9781118783764.wbieme0043
Villata, J. & Smith, M. (2023). Virtual Study Visit Lecture 7: City of Sydney Archives. 3rd of May, 2023.http://antispam.csu.edu.au:32224/?dmVyPTEuMDAxJiZiODQ1NWFhOGFjZmY0YzlmZD02NDUxQjYxMl8xMzk0MF8xNjEzN18xJiZkZjk0YzE3ZTkyN2JhMDQ9MTMzMyYmdXJsPWh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGY2hhcmxlc3N0dXJ0JTJFem9vbSUyRXVzJTJGcmVjJTJGc2hhcmUlMkZUNyU1RnB6Y1ZTTkw0RnJmZFRsYi1oai1GOHpZbVlDQ3FpMkcxRTI5UEdNdWdqeFZwV3M2N1RxeXdJWWswam1vQVklMkUyekZFdTlEbDJNdmFyZ3ht
Wee, D. (2023). Virtual Study Visit Lecture 2: Rare Books Collection. 27th of April 2023. http://antispam.csu.edu.au:32224/?dmVyPTEuMDAxJiYyZTIyNWRiY2QyYjRkMTk2YT02NDQ5Rjc2Ql81ODhfMzQyMl8yJiZlNGU0YmFmMmFiMWVjYjg9MTMzMyYmdXJsPWh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGY2hhcmxlc3N0dXJ0JTJFem9vbSUyRXVzJTJGcmVjJTJGc2hhcmUlMkZzNDhma3hENy11azVqbWlGbFR4Q0w2enZtdUhMbVB5U3RpMzFWdDhtWlRxa29GQ3prRzktbnB1OEdKTUt6eVFYJTJFcU1nVE1VMUxXNU5xJTVGLUtQ
POST TWO – Understanding and Analysing Information Professionals
Pathways in Information Professionals
Information agencies encompass public, educational, and specialised libraries; collecting institutions such as archives; and museums. Regardless of their pathway, most information professionals undertake the management of collections and resources; supervise and lead teams; manage projects and information systems; design and implement services for specific needs; develop responsive programs; provide expert advice on information, accessibility, organisation, and retrieval; develop strategic plans; prepare budgets; and market and promote their services (ALIA, n.d.a.).
Challenges to Information Professionals
For those working within an information agency, challenges may occur concerning budgeting, physical or digital space, time management, marketing, cyber security and copyright issues, accessibility, user needs, collaboration, professional understanding, and digital division. Wee commented that budgeting, working with stakeholders, time constraints, and physical storage were all challenges within the Rare Books Collection (RBC) (VSV Lecture 2, 2023). When discussing storage, Wee disclosed that capacity, limited budget, and a need for specialists had impacted the growth of their collection (VSV Lecture 2, 2023). Hawthorne agreed, stating that the biggest challenge for the Mona Library was negotiating limited storage for their exponential collection when weeding is not an option (VSV Lecture 3, 2023). In contrast, the City of Sydney Archives (CSA) identified that their previous management system could have been more user-friendly. It thus was a barrier to meeting their community’s needs (VSV Lecture 7, 2023). Through the CAMPAS system, CSA could streamline their 13 systems into one user-friendly interface and overcome this barrier, clarifying their role as information specialists who facilitate access and not frustrations (Smith & Villata, 2020, p.11). It is integral that information professionals embrace change and overcome challenges that arise so that they stay relevant.
Advice for Future Information Professionals
Entering any new profession, one will be adorned with professional advice, and it is sensible to hear the words of the wise. Wee advised on the importance of understanding your collection and its history, the institution you work for, smart budgeting, fruitful relationships with stakeholders, understanding your users, and utilising your Collection Development Policy (CDP). Wee also highlighted the importance of volunteering and using your experience to develop yourself professionally (VSV Lecture 2, 2023). Similarly, Hawthorn agreed that understanding your collection is critical and that time and experience pay off regardless of background. She also stressed the importance of accuracy and being reactive to the user’s needs (VSV Lecture 3, 2023).
In contrast, Korodaj and Godfree highlighted the importance of tailoring your collections through consultation and collaboration with your users; and the value that less is more when marketing your services (VSV Lecture 5, 2023). They also stressed the importance of emotional intelligence, being calm under pressure and lateral thinking when working as information professionals; Wee and Hawthorne provided similar musings (VSV Lecture 2 & 3, 2023). While the CSA prioritised data management, attention to detail, ethical knowledge, communication, and community engagement and accessibility (VSV Lecture 7, 2023).
Professional Development Opportunities
Each information professional stressed the importance of professional development (PD) throughout the Virtual Study Visits. Through PD, you can learn new skills, consolidate current skills, advance your career, extend your expertise, perform your occupation adequately, and signal to potential employers that you are a reflective and active practitioner (Harvard DCE, 2022). As I am currently working in a non-information specialist role, I have sought free PD through webinars, informative videos, and free modules; until I can afford to complete ALIA-recognised courses. My current PD will be through the free SCIS short course in collection management and cataloguing (2020); and utilising courses through OpenLearn, for example, An Introduction to School Librarianship (The Open University, n.d.a.) and LinkedIn Learning, such as Information Literacy(Loftis, 2015). Toward the end of the year, I aim to undergo PD in Digital Trends and Cataloguing for Beginnersthrough ALIA Training and Education (n.d.a.).
Reference List – Post 2
ALIA, Australian Library and Information Association. (n.d.a.). ALIA Training and Education. www.alia.org.au/Web/Web/Careers/Training.aspx
ALIA, Australian Library and Information Association (n.d.a). Becoming a Library and Information Professional. https://www.alia.org.au/Web/Web/Careers/Becoming-An-Information-Professional/Becoming-a-Library-and-Information-Professional.aspx?hkey=7395675d-6fef-4bb1-9c09-1a495ae99daa
Harvard DCE. (2022). Why Is Professional Development Important? – Professional Development: Harvard DCE.https://professional.dce.harvard.edu/blog/why-is-professional-development-important/
Hawthorne, L. (2023). Virtual Study Visit Lecture 3: Mona. 27th of April 2023. https://charlessturt.zoom.us/rec/share/oCpvryLtFdLq69o8gqTebYoXpffIKmC9XtcRL4lkI9GSQPChOCiLy_z1gtQl1ehl.oBvXtJHp-PGx_RC_
Korodaj, L. & Godfree, H. (2023). Virtual Study Visit Lecture 5: Lake Tuggeranong College. 1st of May, 2023. http://antispam.csu.edu.au:32224/?dmVyPTEuMDAxJiZlYWY1OGI4ZjQ1OWVjMWE1NT02NDRGOTFERF81NDc1N18xMzQxNl8xJiY3OWEyMWQ2MmUxMWU3NTQ9MTMzMyYmdXJsPWh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGY2hhcmxlc3N0dXJ0JTJFem9vbSUyRXVzJTJGcmVjJTJGc2hhcmUlMkZlSW9jNElUQ092MTZmYmFuTE8tYU5kOWFoNWhuTE9LcG9YSFlQWE5HR0FFWHdNc1dyb2FuWjRmNzFNRHZsZUZhJTJFUVdSdzBBRnVGRjNlMjhUNQ==
Loftis, E. (2015) Information Literacy. LinkedIn, 20 July 2015. www.linkedin.com/learning/information-literacy/welcome?autoplay=true&u=2096756
Michael Smith & Janet Villata (2020) Applying user centred design to Archives, Archives and Manuscripts, 48:3, 239-249, DOI: 10.1080/01576895.2020.1798790
The Open University (n.d.a.) OpenLearn: All Our Free Courses. www.open.edu/openlearn/free-courses/full-catalogue
SCIS. (2020). Free SCIS Short Course: Managing Your Library Collection and Catalogue.https://scis.edublogs.org/2020/03/31/free-scis-short-course-managing-your-library-collection-and-catalogue/
Villata, J. & Smith, M. (2023). Virtual Study Visit Lecture 7: City of Sydney Archives. 3rd of May, 2023.http://antispam.csu.edu.au:32224/?dmVyPTEuMDAxJiZiODQ1NWFhOGFjZmY0YzlmZD02NDUxQjYxMl8xMzk0MF8xNjEzN18xJiZkZjk0YzE3ZTkyN2JhMDQ9MTMzMyYmdXJsPWh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGY2hhcmxlc3N0dXJ0JTJFem9vbSUyRXVzJTJGcmVjJTJGc2hhcmUlMkZUNyU1RnB6Y1ZTTkw0RnJmZFRsYi1oai1GOHpZbVlDQ3FpMkcxRTI5UEdNdWdqeFZwV3M2N1RxeXdJWWswam1vQVklMkUyekZFdTlEbDJNdmFyZ3ht
Wee, D. (2023). Virtual Study Visit Lecture 2: Rare Books Collection. 27th of April 2023. http://antispam.csu.edu.au:32224/?dmVyPTEuMDAxJiYyZTIyNWRiY2QyYjRkMTk2YT02NDQ5Rjc2Ql81ODhfMzQyMl8yJiZlNGU0YmFmMmFiMWVjYjg9MTMzMyYmdXJsPWh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGY2hhcmxlc3N0dXJ0JTJFem9vbSUyRXVzJTJGcmVjJTJGc2hhcmUlMkZzNDhma3hENy11azVqbWlGbFR4Q0w2enZtdUhMbVB5U3RpMzFWdDhtWlRxa29GQ3prRzktbnB1OEdKTUt6eVFYJTJFcU1nVE1VMUxXNU5xJTVGLUtQ
POST THREE – Reflection of Virtual Study Visits
The ETL512 Study Visits were one of the things I was looking forward to the most as part of my studies as a Teacher-Librarian, as I was eager to learn about the different institutions and the process of becoming an effective information specialist. Unfortunately, I could not attend the in-person visits, and instead, I had to participate virtually. At first, I was apprehensive about completing a study visit online because I felt I was missing out on the physical experience. However, this was not the case at all, and the whole experience made me contemplate the purpose of social and digital tools in my education.
The Virtual Study Visits (VSV) were timely, well-prepared, informative, and comprehensive. Through the discussion forums and the lecture chat, I could ascertain answers to most of my questions. Additionally, the background information provided by the hosts enabled me to think and reflect on appropriate questions for the presentations and provided a deeper contextual understanding of the hosts and their institutes. Through the VSV, I contextualised and consolidated my coursework further. I especially found the presentations and Q&A from the Mona and the City of Sydney Archives (CSA) highly detailed, visually adequate, relatable, and engaging. The standout display for me was the CSA, as I found it incredibly straightforward, comprehensive, and unique, with both hosts relaying quality information and experiences to the participants; the user-centred cataloguing system and subsequent demonstration especially enthralled me. Despite finding the Rare Books Collection and Lake Tuggeranong College presentations engaging, I did want to know more about the nitty-gritty elements or, at the very least, more images of their physical spaces.
Thanks to the VSV, I have many career possibilities to explore post-graduation. Despite my heart being set on being a TL, I am now intrigued by pursuing training and a career in archives. My main takeaway from the VSV is that information agencies must be receptive to the users’ needs, engaging in more than cataloguing, to build a successful physical and digital space for information storage and retrieval.