Program Learning Outcome 6 (PLO6)

During a group project in LIS 650, we worked through several case studies set in a public library. Case Study 3 focuses on systemic racism within the library and community at large. As a group we conducted research and discussed possible solutions. We decided that this problem needed to be approached in layers to fully address the issue.

I took the lead on the first in the series of case studies in LIS 650, this one dealing with the homeless population in public libraries. The resulting strategic plan focuses on a long-term solution involving revisions to policy and procedures to align with the organizational mission along with community partnerships and staff training to create positive outcomes for future interactions.

I contributed to group projects in LIS 610, LIS 620, LIS 643, and LIS 650. In each instance, I sought to communicate a shared vision and learn the strengths of my fellow group members thereby working more effectively. 

As the 2021-2022 Treasurer of the Library and Information Science Student Association, I worked with an outstanding team to create growth opportunities for the students in our department. In addition to overseeing the club finances, I partnered with Vice President Stephany Wade to facilitate monthly CritLib sessions. I created polls to give those interested a voice in determining the subjects discussed and collaborated with staff at Jackson Library to purchase materials for the CritLib sessions and put them on digital reserves for inclusive accessibility. 

UNCG LISSA Resource Site (google.com) 

During my capstone experience with Mixxer I planned and completed a project creating instructional tutorials for the members of the makerspace. The project included deliberate steps, reporting my progress, and creating deliverables within a predetermined timeframe.

In this case study, my group and I outlined deliberate steps for analyzing and executing a plan to address communication shortfalls throughout the community and inequities seen across the library system.

One of my goals during this program was to create a makerspace in the branch where I am employed. Through networking with area businesses and community members, I was able to secure donations of tools and supplies to get a small makerspace started in the summer of 2021. In LIS 634 I wrote a proposal to expand upon this makerspace project. The expansion consists of kits that can travel between the 13 regional branches. This would allow novice programming staff an opportunity to gain skills and confidence without being overwhelmed while also cost saving by sharing resources throughout the region. Then I wrote a funding proposal, which was submitted to the State Library of North Carolina and received approval for a Bright Ideas grant. This proposal gave me a spot at the table to join the region committee in procuring the items listed in the proposal and seeing that training is provided equitably to staff.

Group projects throughout the LIS program have offered an opportunity to reflect upon interpersonal interactions. The most challenging group for me was the one in LIS 610 which decided to rely solely upon written communication. As discussed in this assessment, I learned that my written communication can be read as harsh, and I have worked to be more mindful since then. With further reflection, I could also add that I may be overly critical at times of both myself and other team members. I am learning to keep a healthy perspective and value the individual over trivial mistakes.