My Professional Philosophy

My Professional Philosophy

My philosophy is simple. The relationships a librarian forges with patrons and students can be critical to their success.
In graduate school, I often heard it said that students who have positive relationships with their teachers are in a much better position to learn. My own experience has borne this out.
As a child, school was where I felt valued and safe. I marveled at how predictable, calm, and positive my teachers typically were. This allowed me to relax and learn.
When I was in high school, each of us seniors were called, in turn, to the guidance office to discuss our futures. The counselor looked down at my grades and test scores, then back up at me. She said simply, “You will go to college.” Stunned, I nodded. No one had ever said that to me before. I was flattered, but I was most struck by how matter-of-fact she was, as though it was the logical next step; the course my life would obviously take. I fully intended to go. In my world, however, it was far from a foregone conclusion. Although I was the baby of the family, no one in my house had gone to college. Higher education wasn’t discussed in our blue collar home or neighborhood. My family, as are many, was plagued with alcoholism and abuse. If not for my teachers and guidance counselor, I may have continued the pattern of marrying an addict as a teen, bearing children almost right away, and foregoing higher education.
As an undergraduate student, I learned about the psychologist Carl Rogers, who said that therapy requires “unconditional positive regard.” This concept struck a chord in me. This is what I felt from teachers as a child, and what allowed me to move forward.
Rogers’ concept best encapsulates my philosophy. Realistically, some people may know me only as someone with a smiling face and a respectful tone. For those I get to know better, I may have more of an impact. There is an opportunity here to make a real difference. We live in troubled times. With an approachable air, I may become a confidante. From there, I could guide someone in the right direction, such as to a campus counselor or a social worker.
I know that educational philosophy papers typically include a lot of detailed information about teaching practices. I also know such statements can bore people to tears. So, I hope it suffices for now to say that I use, and embrace, the collaborative, evidence-based, student-centered teaching practices of today. You will see concrete examples in this website.
Librarianship is a complex art that takes a lifetime, or more, to master. I don’t pretend to have all the answers. I do have an open mind and a love of learning.
A brilliant media specialist I know, Joy Ike, put it best. The library is “safe harbor for the disenfranchised.” I love that. I have come full circle. To give back. This is exactly where I want to be.