An article for a library magazine that I decided not to submit

There was a period in my career where I was finding it a struggle to transition from a library assistant to being a full time professional librarian.  Finally, after much perseverance and the support of colleagues and friends, I achieved my goal.

For several years I had worked at a university library as a lending assistant.  During this time and after completing my MLIS, I was seconded twice as a liaison librarian which I enjoyed both times.  Then a permanent position came up but the interview went badly and I wasn’t offered it so I began applying for other jobs.   One position which I had particularly high hopes for was liaison for a subject which had been my BA major.  I was also very interested in an internal vacancy that was involved with curating the university’s research repository.  However, no job offers were forthcoming and I experienced some bitter disappointment.  The support though I received from some of my colleagues with my job search was heartening. 

Part of the problem was that I often got nervous in interviews and could be hesitant with my answers or I’d ramble too much.  Luckily an old family friend had taken a keen interest in my career and he suggested we meet up with a friend of his who ran her own recruitment company.  She proved to be a great mentor and we did some interview mock ups which was very helpful.  Eventually I seemed to find a rhythm of sorts and my answers started to flow much better. 

Not long after that I applied for a position as the librarian at a private college specialising in early childcare education.   I was not expecting an interview, thinking I would not have the right experience so I was surprised when they invited me for one.  Then I was pleasantly surprised to be asked for another interview and quite stunned when it was followed by a job offer.  Actually at the time I was expecting my first child so it seemed kind of appropriate to be moving to a job in early childcare!

I have been in the role just over a year now and it has been going well.   While it has been a huge adjustment moving from a university library to being sole charge in a much smaller library in a private organisation, I have embraced the change.  I realised that I had learned a lot in my time as a lending assistant and I have put all this knowledge to good use in managing the library and making various improvements.   It’s also satisfying having the freedom to make my own decisions.  For example, I like being able to use my own discretion when weeding items.  While I’m happy working on my own (with the help of an assistant) I relish the contact I have with other librarians through TeLSIG.

I think my story illustrates the importance of not making assumptions…about anything, and the value of having good mentors to help you achieve your career goals.