Collecting and preserving information on the Internet have always remained a daunting task for librarians. The massive and ephemeral nature of Internet has made it extremely difficult(if not impossible) to archive the information mounted on billions of websites. The good news is, the Library of Congress(LOC) has launched a new project “Web Capture” to attain this goal. Check out the detail here.
This is a book written by Dennie Heye, an information scientist at the library of a Fortune 500 global energy firm. According to Heye, his book is written for “professional library and Information Services (LIS) staff and LIS students who want to be more successful as information professionals”. Unfortunately I couldn’t locate a copy in any local library here in the Greater Vancouver area. A search in WorldCat revealed that only McGill University had a holding of this book in Canada. From the table of content, however, we can at least get a glimpse of what characteristics we should possess(or achieve for) in order to be a competent Information Professional.
Here is the table of content:
Introduction
You are creative and keen to innovate
You are a search engine guru
You see the big picture
You maintain a healthy work–life balance
You show leadership
You can persuade others
You are an effective networker
You know how you can add value
You have effective presentation skills
You know how to measure value
You manage your time and use the magical word ‘no’
You know the basics of information architecture
You speak the technical jargon
You can manage a project
You know how to effectively market yourself
You are always up to date
Conclusion
Bibliography
For those of you who want to know more about this book and its author, you may go to Amazon.
Many of us have worked for, or worked with, Jing on different projects. She has mentored many new library students and new librarians. Jing’s passion about our profession and her commitment to share her knowledge have set a very good example for all of us.
As most of us are settling in our professional jobs, I call upon all of you to remain passionate about our chosen profession. We will emulate Jing’s commitment in championing new projects, developing professional skills, and inspiring others. Together, we will help each other and enrich ourselves.
On the Professional Development note, please consider the Toastmasters!