[Web4lib] Skillset for new librarians

[Cox, Thomas]

Hi Elizabeth,

Thom Cox from Tisch library at Tufts University here.  I'm not sure I'm qualified to enter a discussion about where the librarian profession is going but, as an IT project manager, I am happy to share observations of technical skill demonstrated by some of our librarian staff that is delivering substantive and beneficial impact.   I've witnessed a firm embrace of Web 2.0 and social media technologies here.  Several of our librarians compile RSS feeds (often as a mashup through Yahoo Pipes) and make them available, through our LibGuides system, for students enrolled in the subject areas for which they support.  Blog software such as WordPress, and software related to instructional design and presentation (Adobe Captivate) are in frequent use as well.  In summary, I would say that any skills than enable the librarian to engage with students in manners indigenous to their experience—an experience increasingly forged exterior to libraries—is a plus.  I'm also witnessing a greater need for metadata specialization.

I hope this is helpful.

Kind regards,

Thom

Thom W. Cox
Technical Project Manager
Tisch Library
Tufts University
Medford, MA
thomas.cox at tufts.edu

"Every technology has a philosophy which is given
expression in how the technology makes people  use their minds,
in how it codifies the world, and in which of our senses it amplifies…”
    - Neal Postman




On 1/3/11 12:36 PM, "Elizabeth Beers" <brixton at gmail.com<mailto:brixton at gmail.com>> wrote:

Hello Web4Lib!

I'm preparing to teach a course entitled Introduction to Technology in LIS,
and I'm looking for some input on what you consider critical tech skills for
new librarians.  The course is intended to provide an overview of the sorts
of tech systems and capabilities that librarians will be expected to have or
interact with once leaving library school.  Some of these students will be
taking this class because they want to work with library systems or
electronic resources - others will be in much less techy roles but want to
have some tech experience going into their jobs.

I'm interested in hearing what YOU think are the essential skills for new
librarians - taken as broadly or narrowly as you'd like.  I really
appreciate your opinions - and your time.

Elizabeth Beers
Digital Services Assistant
Kresge Business Administration Library
Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan
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