Reflection on ETL504

There were many things I learned from ETL504.  These include the CBAM change process model, styles of leadership, vision statements and the notion of the library as an iCentre (Lyn Hay) where technology, teaching and information leaders in the school come together. 

I had never heard of change process models before and it makes so much sense to embed an understanding of the emotional responses people have when asked to learn new methods using new technology.  I had never identified the different styles of leadership before either, nor thought about how to work with these styles and continue to be effective in my profession.  It was also interesting to learn that it was possible to be objective and separate the issue from the leader delivering the issue.

Being asked to create a vision statement and thinking about its practical application was another interesting exercise, as it forced me to think about the essence of the library profession. This not only reinforced the central role of the library within a school, but provided an opportunity to articulate that role in a meaningful way.

ETL504 had great relevance for the classroom and library environment.

ETL507 Study Visits

I have just completed Study Visits in Melbourne for my Professional Practice course for th MEd (TL).  Having been to the Victorian State Library, SWETS Services, NGV Library, CAVAL and the La Trobe Library, Public Records Office and the Melbourne City Library, it was really meaningful to see libraries with a new understanding of their value as a service to the community, their high level of commitment to their patrons, their professionalism, generosity of spirit as well as their concerns.

Overall, I learned that there is a far greater variety of librarianship skills and range of library services than I had previously imagined.  I learned that librarians are passionate, highly skilled and generous in their willingness to showcase their facilities and services, to share their knowledge and to be adaptable and innovative in maximising technology for the purpose of making access to information easy for users.  Most of all, people involved in information management services care about their customers; about the quality of service they provide, pay great attention to detail and are very focused on the specific purposes of their organisation.  It was so inspiring to see so many people enjoying their work, engaging with people, getting great satisfaction from providing access to information and using their skills to problem-solve despite constant budget and space restraints.