Reflective Summary
A challenge I knew I would face in completing the CIMT 659 Practicum would be in my placement. Living in Santa Cruz, Bolivia means there are few English language libraries in which to volunteer. I completed 60 hours at the school where I currently work, but the second 60 hours at a public or university library proved to be more difficult. Through a friend, I learned the CBA had opened a public library, but would they also have an English speaking librarian to assist with my hours? Luckily, I was able to not only work with Sonia, but also gain valuable information in how a public library operates.
One of my “ah!” moments came with the cataloging I was asked to do. Ever since CIMT 522, I have really loved to catalog and I was glad to realize that cataloging at the CBA was very similar to cataloging at SCCS. Although they use LibraryWorld and we use Destiny, the two OPAC systems had enough similarities that I did not feel inadequate to accomplish the cataloging task. My final exam essay from CIMT 522 also brought home this same point. Completing these practicum hours reminded me that cataloging doesn't have to be a chore - it just takes some undivided attention; it is possible to whittle away at the stack that I have in the back room, something I was able to start on during my practicum hours.
One of my “ah!” moments came with the cataloging I was asked to do. Ever since CIMT 522, I have really loved to catalog and I was glad to realize that cataloging at the CBA was very similar to cataloging at SCCS. Although they use LibraryWorld and we use Destiny, the two OPAC systems had enough similarities that I did not feel inadequate to accomplish the cataloging task. My final exam essay from CIMT 522 also brought home this same point. Completing these practicum hours reminded me that cataloging doesn't have to be a chore - it just takes some undivided attention; it is possible to whittle away at the stack that I have in the back room, something I was able to start on during my practicum hours.