Tuesday 26 May 2015

'Let’s Talk' Wrap Up



City of Sydney Customs House library opened its beautiful reading room for Library and Information students for a panel discussion and networking event on Tuesday the 19th of May.

Panellists included Hiba Kanj (ALIA Students and New Graduate Committee Convenor), Alex Cato (Australian Law Librarians Association NSW Division President), Kate Byrne (International Librarian’s Network) and Jeffery Cruz (Manager, City of Sydney Library).

Also in attendance were several CSU School of Information Studies and TAFE Library and Information Services Staff.

Each panellist offered the attendees their unique perspectives on all manner of library and education related questions, from career and professional development, to their dream libraries.

Key points covered for getting a first library job were:
  • Address selection criteria directly! If unsure, use the STAR method. Most organisations will also have an information pack for addressing criteria.  
  • Work experience outside the LIS field is valid- many skills are transferable (teamwork, customer service etc)
  • Showing/ admitting to nerves during an interview is OK, however crying may not secure you the job.

On Professional Development, the panel all stressed the importance of continuous learning and engagement. Joining ALIA groups and going to events or trying out session of the International Librarians’ Network can lead to highly rewarding discoveries about the industry and expand your professional network.


A very special thank you to Kathy Tritsaris and staff for hosting this event, and to Mary Carroll, Jeff Cruz, Kathy Tritsaris and Diana Richards for making it happen.


CW

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