Self-Assessment

I began the MLIS program in 2021. I wanted to change my career path because I needed to be more satisfied in my current career as a software engineer. I chose the library and information studies field because the career field was exciting and is something I am passionate about. I decided to focus on getting a MLIS would provide me with the foundation for becoming a librarian. 

My first self-assessment was in the fall semester of 2021. Completing the assessment denoted my goals and areas I should focus on to improve my skills and knowledge. It also showed me some of my strengths, including a background that dealt heavily with technology, time management, problem-solving, and a high level of customer service in stressful situations.

The analysis also pointed out my weakness in general knowledge of how libraries function both day to day and how libraries are managed. This weakness became one of my learning goals in becoming knowledgeable in the American Library Association ALA core competencies. The SWOT analysis also highlighted a weakness in clear communication, which I need to address, and I don't clearly relate all relevant information when starting a conversation. This is something that I will work on through both academic courses and in professional settings.

There will be many opportunities in which I can network through both the Oklahoma Library Association and ALA. The 2023 OLA/MPLA is a good place to start by volunteering and helping gain a presence in the community and build a social network. The MLIS program will also help connect me with other information professionals and will help expand my network.

A small percentage of libraries contain maker spaces and the possibility of finding a full-time position in that space is a challenge. I plan to offset this by becoming more familiar and knowledgeable about other regions in library services and allowing me to be not only a better all-around librarian but one who can easily switch between multiple roles as needed to meet not only the library’s needs, but also the patrons' as well.