elise blas AND librar*

Emporia’s program outcomes are listed on the SLIM site as:

• Articulate a philosophy of client-centered information services based on the epistemological and ethical foundations of the library and information professions;
• Explain and apply interdisciplinary theories and models relevant to managing library and information service agencies;
• Conduct an information needs assessment, and design and evaluate customized information services and products based on those needs;
• Based on a diagnosed need, retrieve, interpret, and/or repackage relevant information resources, and evaluate their use and impact;
• Lead appropriate change by using effective collaborative, communication and organizational skills;
• Teach information literacy skills in order to facilitate effective learning organizations;
• Demonstrate life-long learning skills by continually acquiring new knowledge, skills and perspectives to respond to changing conditions;
• Communicate effectively in writing, orally, and in using information technologies.

Through my community assessment, research, and cataloging classes in addition to my practicum at LCCC, I have reinforced my beliefs that libraries can and will adapt to patrons’ needs.  The old paradigm of libraries guarding information had shifted in favor of libraries valuing their patrons.  Each community has its own culture and needs.  Libraries change to fit those needs, rather than patrons making due with what is immediately available.  If this means that an academic library takes a cue from a public library or vice versa to meet patron needs, that is what needs to happen.  We share resources, we should share ideas.

Emporia lists the program values on the SLIM site as:

• Articulate a philosophy of client-centered information services based on the epistemological and ethical foundations of the library and information professions;
• Explain and apply interdisciplinary theories and models relevant to managing library and information service agencies;
• Conduct an information needs assessment, and design and evaluate customized information services and products based on those needs;
• Based on a diagnosed need, retrieve, interpret, and/or repackage relevant information resources, and evaluate their use and impact;
• Lead appropriate change by using effective collaborative, communication and organizational skills;
• Teach information literacy skills in order to facilitate effective learning organizations;
• Demonstrate life-long learning skills by continually acquiring new knowledge, skills and perspectives to respond to changing conditions;
• Communicate effectively in writing, orally, and in using information technologies.