T20: Involving library technicians in the future of the profession
Session Description
Generously Sponsored By: Simon Fraser University Library
It is hard to miss the discussion about changes to the role of librarians, in response to initiatives such as digital humanities, Makerspaces, information literacy instruction, and open access to name a few. How are these changes affecting the positions of library technicians? Is organization cultural changing to provide more growth and support for library technicians? Are library technicians active within the wider library community? In this panel discussion three library technicians, at various places within their careers, will examine this topic.
Speakers
Anita Thompson, Fraser Health Authority
Biography
Anita Thompson is a graduate of the University of the Fraser Valley Library and Information Technology program and has happily worked for Fraser Health Authority (FHA) since 2010. She’s worked at several FHA libraries but has been at the Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Centre Library serving physicians, staff, patients and members of the public since 2013. Anita is passionate about health literacy and patient education, particularly for under-served populations.
Ashley Edwards, Simon Fraser University
Biography
Ashley Edwards graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley in 2009 with her Library Technician diploma. She is a MLIS candidate, enrolled in the University of Alberta's online program. Ashley worked in school libraries, and a special library before joining the Learning and Instructional Services division at the SFU Burnaby Library in January 2013. Since then she has developed a passion for information literacy, reference services, and Indigenous librarianship.
Liz Frick
Biography
Liz Frick is a mature student embarking on a second career after raising kids and building a small business. Libraries were her first job and first love, and she now finally gets to pursue that goal with relish. Liz is very close to completing her diploma, and plans to pursue work in public libraries, with a particular emphasis on programming.