Reflective Comments-Intro. to the Library and Information Profession-SU Course 511-Day 5

As the final day of "Boot Camp" approached, I found myself reflecting on the week as a whole. Though tired, exhausted and stretched to the maximum, many new concepts were internalized and network connections created (and hopefully these will be lasting). Discoveries made that I deem especially essential to my new position include learning about Creative Commons and the Librarian's Index to the Internet. OWL might also be helpful to me as a new librarian in that it contains powerpoints useful for teaching research skills (which will hopefully be taught in collaboration with classroom instructors). I anticipate using the Web of Science as I pursue finishing my coursework.

I must take this opportunity to comment on the value of collective intelligence and the power of collaboration. Although evidence of the educational aspects of social learning has been around for some time, seeing this in action this week has really proven to me that these concepts are indeed powerful. Learning this week occurred not only in the formal classroom but in small group situations. Working together to achieve a common goal brings together the positive attributes of each unique member and creates powerful ideas and products not likely to have been produced by one individual alone.

Finally, a common theme seemed to be wound throughout each lecture, project and discussion-serving patrons. Providing useful resources and information, whether to meet information or aesthetic needs is what our common goal as librarians is, no matter what facet of librarianship one is involved in. Libraries of today, as mentioned by one of today's speakers (JudyDzikowski, OCM Boces), are not "shushing" places. They are active and constantly moving forward in order to meet the needs of the patrons. As a school librarian, I will strive to make this happen in my building. I will see every student in the building and be a role model as I assist students in becoming life-long learners in this information-rich environment!