Helen Snowden is currently a librarian with the Children’s Department at the Gloucester Township Branch of the Camden County Library System. As a recent graduate from Drexel University MLIS Program and a 2007 Spectrum Scholar recipient, librarianship is a career change for Mrs. Snowden. After a number of years in marketing she decided to pursue a passion that encompasses many of her talents.
What made you choose your field of focus, and when did you decide?
My previous employer was going through many changes and I became quite unhappy with my position. Lack of challenges and mundane, routine work really did not make use of the many talents I had to offer. I knew I needed a change but I did not just want to jump into anything. One day while visiting my local library I picked up a brochure about becoming a librarian. I was intrigued. This career had many avenues in which I could travel and I was excited about embarking on this journey. In 2007 I was laid-off and decided to pursue my dream full steam ahead and completed my MLIS in a little over a year at Drexel University Online program.
What skills have you had to learn on the job that weren’t covered in your classes?
With my previous work in marketing, along with my volunteer activities I was really able to hit the pavement running at my new job. The only thing that I would say was not covered in my classes was specific programming ideas such as developing a storytime for toddlers. Reaching out to my colleagues in a number of organizations has provided with a wealth of practical information. There are so many different ideas out there that a class could only provide the structure not the content. Which is why it is important to actively participate in organizations of interest.
What information from your MLS studies do you use regularly? What doesn’t come up at all?
This is why I was so impressed with my education at Drexel University. In the short amount of time I have been in my new career, I have been able to use everything in my coursework. Collection development, developing information literacy programs, managing websites, handling reference questions, manipulating database information are all things I do a regular basis. What I learned in cataloging also helps me find information for my patrons. My education was well-rounded and the information useful.
What kinds of skills from outside of your library background have come in handy in your job as a librarian?
In my previous career I was in marketing and that skill has really been handy in promoting my children’s programs. I make sure I come in contact with every parent who brings in a child and let them know what our library has to offer. This has made my programs quite successful even to the point that there is actually a waiting list for some programs. Also, my overall people skills have really made many patrons feel more comfortable in asking for assistance. I am constantly moving around our library, greeting people crossing my path. For our regular patrons that really makes a difference to them. Just saying Hello can sometimes turn a frown upside down.
What is your typical work-day like?
Is there such a thing? A typical day for me begins by checking in material from the book drops and finding material requested by other branches. I then manage my displays, which I have to replenish daily because the patrons really do like the idea of someone suggesting something for them to read that they would not have thought of on their own. I spend time developing my various programs. Choosing books to read, activities to play, and crafts to create for each program requires planning. One comment I have received from a number of parents is the fact that they can tell I put time and effort into the program and they really do appreciate the work I do. In the afternoon I spend time with the children. This allows me an opportunity to connect with my community and help me with ideas for future activities. Throughout I handle a variety of reference questions as well as provide assistance to people on the computers and children who need a little help with their homework. Helping people on the daily basis really is a rewarding experience.