DAILY

May 7th was my first day. I reported for work and was surprised to find the director wasn't working that night. I walked around and said hello to staff. I found it odd while at the same time comforting to find out each of them knew who I was and why I was there. Only one person really knew what I was supposed to do. I ended up working with Lois in the Children's Department. My main tasks were learning check in processes. Similar to my school situation books needed scanned in, looking for fines and charges. Next books needed magnetised and cleaned. I was provided an ammonia bottle and rags to wipe down books before placing them on temporary shelves. I was amazed that the clerks wipe down front, back, and spine of each book coming in. I understand fully why, however it seems like quite a task for each and every item. I have more appreciation for their efforts after my shift that night!

I felt like an operator running a switchboard. I had to absorb their spine labeling and sort books as I wiped them down - placing them on their appropriate hold area (shelf). I made errors, which Lois and the other clerk expected. I later shelved some of the books I cleaned which helped me get familiar with the small detailed special collections and layout of the children's room. I'd used the library and that room before but didn't realize they had so many small special collection areas.