Goal 4

Outcome 4a: Apply library and information science theories, principles, and research to professional practice.

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In LIS 708 (Evidence-Based Planning, Management, and Decision-Making), we have been learning to use both quantitative and qualitative data to look for insights in our professional practice and tell a persuasive story about the library's services and resources to decision-makers and stakeholders.

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For this assignment, we were required to download a data set from the Ohio State Library's Public Library Statistics 2021 and create a pivot table featuring data from four of the 11 libraries listed in the data set, comparing at least three values. Next we were required to describe our pivot table results and any insights that we gained from the data. 

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I focused on the relatively low adult program attendance at the Adams County Public Library, compared to that of the Amherst Public Library, and speculated some possible reasons for this disparity. I also suggested some possible first steps that may help boost attendance at these programs.

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Artifact: Application Activity: Public Data Analysis with Pivot Tables

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Outcome 4b: Evaluate current and emerging technologies for information capture, organization, dissemination, access, and/or curation to meet the variety of information needs of diverse communities.

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In LIS 772 (Academic Libraries), we were assigned to complete a literature review that would be the basis of a hypothetical job talk presentation. We were allowed to explore any topic of interest related to academic libraries. I chose to explore the benefits and challenges of using A.I. in academic libraries. A.I. has the potential to make library operations more efficient and assist students with writing but can also wreak havoc in the academic library setting, leading to plagiarism and the spread of misinformation. In my literature review, I investigated three types of A.I.; how A.I. can assist librarians now and in the near future; A.I. as a disruptor in higher education; and how to mitigate some of these negative aspects of A.I.

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A.I. is quickly evolving and has become a fixture in many people's lives. Research on the implications of using A.I. in libraries is in its infancy. There is often resistance or fear when new tools are introduced to society; however, it is important for academic librarians to understand and learn how to use these systems to their benefit. 

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Artifact: Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education and Academic Libraries: A Literature Review

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Outcome 4c: Demonstrating teaching and learning principles in relation to professional practice.

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In LIS 748 (Collection Management), we were assigned to write a literature review and PowerPoint presentation on a current collection management trend. My topic is the popularity of and controversy surrounding graphic novels. I define the term "graphic novel" for the audience, discuss why they are both popular and controversial, and provide suggestions for librarians on acquiring more graphic novels for their collections and battling book bans.

 

My target audience for this informational presentation would be librarians (children's, young adult, and adult services) who may not be familiar or comfortable with graphic novels. This assignment presented me with the opportunity to apply what I have learned about collection management to professional practice.

 

Artifact: How to Be a Graphic Novel Defender

 

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