The Vital Role of Library Student Assistants: A Professional Perspective

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Have you ever wondered about the unsung heroes of our libraries? Those enthusiastic souls who eagerly help our users, organise shelves, and keep our spaces running smoothly? Yes, you guessed it right – the incredible student assistants! 📚🌟

In this blog post, I’m diving into the world of student assistants and their invaluable contributions to our libraries. Get ready to discover the magic they bring to our daily operations.

The Heartbeat of Our Libraries

Picture yourself in a bustling library, where books are constantly checked in, users are curious and seeking answers, and shelves are continually organised to maintain order. Our student assistants provide their invaluable expertise and enthusiasm, going above and beyond to assist patrons in preserving the liveliness of the library atmosphere and ensuring that our libraries continue to flourish.

Why Student Assistants Matter

It’s not just about shelving books or staffing the front desk. Student assistants infuse fresh perspectives, creativity, and a deep connection with the student body. They bridge the gap between staff and patrons, making our library a welcoming hub for learning and exploration. They are our eyes and ears – providing helpful feedback.  

Unveiling the Insights

Curious about what the research says? Here’s a curated list of articles that delve into the significance of student assistants in libraries:

  1. Mestre, L. S., & LeCrone, J. M. (2015). Elevating the Student Assistant: An Integrated Development Program for Student Library Assistants. College & Undergraduate Libraries, 22(1), 1–20.
  2. Benjamin, M., & McDevitt, T. (2018). The Benefits and Challenges of Working in an Academic Library: A Study of Student Library Assistant Experience. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 44(2), 256–262.
  3. Folk, A. L. (2014). How Well Are We Preparing Them?: An Assessment of First-Year Library Student Assistants’ Information Literacy Skills. College & Undergraduate Libraries, 21(2), 177–192.
  4. STANFIELD, A. G., & PALMER, R. L. (2010). Peer-ing into the information commons: Making the most of student assistants in new library spaces (M. Bowler, Ed.; Vol. 38, pp. 634–646). Emerald.
  5. Keyes, K., & Dworak, E. (2017). Staffing Chat Reference with Undergraduate Student Assistants at an Academic Library: A Standards-Based Assessment. The Journal of Academic Librarianship, 43(6), 469–478.
  6. Rex, J. A., & Whelan, J. L. A. (2019). The undergraduate that could: Crafting a collaborative student training program. College & Undergraduate Libraries, 26(1), 19–34.
  7. Becker-Redd, K., Lee, K., & Skelton, C. (2018). Training Student Workers for Cross-Departmental Success in an Academic Library: A New Model. Journal of Library Administration, 58(2), 153–165.
  8. Vassady, L., Archer, A., & Ackermann, E. (2015). READ-ing Our Way to Success: Using the READ Scale to Successfully Train Reference Student Assistants in the Referral Model. Journal of Library Administration, 55(7), 535–548.
  9. Brenza, A., Kowalsky, M., & Brush, D. (2015). Perceptions of students working as library reference assistants at a University Library. Reference Services Review, 43(4), 722–736.
  10. Hupe, M., & Van Keuren, L. (2020). Tracking student assistants’ work at Dahlgren Memorial Library: The tools you’ll need. Journal of Access Services, 17(4), 165–175.
  11. Chan, K. P., Colvin, J. B., Vinyard, M., Leach, C., Naumann, M. A., & Stenis, P. (2015). Libraries Across the Sea: Using a Virtual Presence and Skilled Student Assistants to Serve Students Abroad. Journal of Library Administration, 55(4), 278–301.
  12. Goss, H., & Decker, E. N. (2022). Replacing staff with students to monitor LibChat service: transition process and lessons learned. Reference Services Review, 50(3/4), 419–431.
  13. Altman, S. (2017). Truly Getting to Know the Students: Benefits of Being a Library Assistant While Studying for an MLIS Degree. Knowledge Quest, 45(5), 8.
  14. DeZouche, E., & Santos, D. (2023). Shifting to a high impact practice-centered student worker staffed research desk: a Hispanic serving institution perspective. Reference Services Review, 51(2), 218–229.
  15. Gonnerman, K., & Johnson, K. (2016). Peer reference assistants in a small liberal arts college: case study. Reference Services Review, 44(3), 292–308.

My Take

I’ve had the privilege to work with some fantastic student assistants who have left an indelible mark on our library. Their dedication, fresh ideas, and willingness to learn have enriched our team in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

  • Nurturing Learning Beyond Books

Student assistants are more than just helping hands; they are catalysts for enhancing the overall library experience. Engaging with patrons, answering queries, and assisting in research endeavours, they bridge the gap between library resources and students’ needs. This engagement isn’t just transactional; it’s a genuine connection that fosters a sense of belonging within our library community.

  • Empowerment through Responsibility

One of the remarkable aspects of having student assistants is the empowerment it brings them. As they take charge of various responsibilities, from organising collections to aiding in technology support, they acquire skills beyond the library’s walls. These experiences sow the seeds of leadership, commitment, and collaboration, setting them on a path of professional growth.

  • Fresh Perspectives and Innovation

Student assistants infuse our libraries with a dose of fresh perspectives and innovation. Their proximity to the student body allows them to bring insights that might go unnoticed. By tapping into their ideas, we create a relevant and exciting space for our patrons. This collaboration between seasoned professionals and budding talents enriches our libraries in ways that traditional approaches might miss.

  • Building a Community

A library isn’t just a repository of books; it’s a community of learners and seekers. Student assistants contribute significantly to this sense of community. Through their interactions, they create an environment where patrons feel comfortable seeking assistance, engaging in discussions, and exploring new horizons. This nurturing atmosphere would be the same with their genuine enthusiasm.

  • A Call to Recognition

In this era of rapid technological advancement, it’s easy to overlook the profound impact of human interaction. Student assistants remind us that, at the core, our libraries are spaces for people – spaces where connections are forged and lives are transformed. Their dedication, diligence, and commitment deserve recognition and appreciation.

Let’s Celebrate Them

So, the next time you walk past a student assistant shelving books or assisting a user, remember the immense value they bring to our libraries. Let’s celebrate these budding library professionals who are our helpers and partners in creating a vibrant and dynamic library experience.

Keep rocking.

Exploring the Enchanting Charms of Malacca: A June Journey

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A Tryst with History, Culture, and Culinary Delights

Picture this:

  • Vibrant streets teeming with history.
  • Architectural marvels whisper tales of the past.
  • An array of delectable treats that tickle your taste buds.

Step into the enchanting realm of Malacca – a Malaysian city that beckons with its irresistible fusion of culture, heritage, and flavours. Embark on a journey by my side as we delve into the mesmerising tapestry of attractions, from the alluring Red Square to the awe-inspiring grandeur of Masjid Selat, and finally, immerse ourselves in a compelling culinary odyssey that promises to awaken the senses.

Unveiling the Heart of Malacca: Red Square

This iconic square, also known as Dutch Square, is surrounded by well-preserved colonial-era buildings, each with a unique charm. The focal point is the striking Stadthuys, a striking crimson-hued building that once served as the Dutch governor’s residence. The lush greenery, and cobblestone paths, create a picturesque backdrop, perfect for capturing memories.

A Glimpse of Divinity: Masjid Selat

The Masjid Selat perfectly epitomises this harmonious blend. Also known as the “Floating Mosque,” this architectural masterpiece symbolises unity and diversity. Overlooking the shimmering waters of the Malacca Strait, the mosque’s stunning white facade adorned with touches of blue and gold is a sight to behold, especially during the serene hues of a June sunset. Its breathtaking beauty extends from the exterior to the interior, where intricate details and a sense of tranquillity invite you to reflect.

A Gastronomic Odyssey: Delights for Every Palate

Every journey to Malacca is complete with indulging in its diverse culinary offerings. As you stroll through the bustling Jonker Street Night Market, your senses will be enticed by the irresistible aroma of local delicacies. From savoury satay skewers and mouthwatering Nyonya dishes to the fragrant durian fruits that ignite a love-it-or-hate-it debate, the food scene in Malacca is an adventure in itself. Take the chance to savour Peranakan flavours that fuse Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences, leaving you craving more.

The Asam Pedas, a tangy, spicy fish stew cooked with tamarind, chilli, and assorted local spices, traces its roots back to the kitchens of Malacca. It is more than just a dish. It’s akin to a culinary narrator recounting the stories of the spices and techniques that Arab, Indian, and Chinese traders brought to Malacca’s shores centuries ago. Accompanied by a steaming mound of jasmine rice, it was an explosion of flavours that had me savouring every morsel.

Conclusion: A Tapestry of Memories

Malacca in June offers an enchanting tapestry of history, culture, and flavours. Whether captivated by the historic Red Square, moved by the serenity of Masjid Selat, or indulging in the tempting array of local treats, this Malaysian gem promises an experience that lingers in your heart long after you leave. So, pack your bags, gather your friends or family, and embark on an unforgettable journey in this mesmerising city.

I was sure that I would revisit Malacca. The city’s lively atmosphere and colourful environment left a lasting impression on me. The memory of the city’s vibrant colours and friendly locals stayed with me, and I knew I would have to return to experience it all again. The delicious scents of street food were just one of the things that made Malacca so special. I couldn’t wait to explore more of what this fantastic city offered.

Note: Always check for the latest travel advisories and guidelines before embarking on any trip.

Interesting Websites:

#Travels #Malacca #Wonderlust #Vacation #Malaysia

Legal Battles Between Authors and OpenAI Shed Light on Copyright and the Role of LLMs in Academic Research

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In a recent article ( Academic Journals v. OpenAI? – Choice 360 ), three authors – Sarah Silverman, Mona Awad, and Paul Tremblay – have filed lawsuits against OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, alleging copyright infringement. The authors claim that ChatGPT generated detailed summaries of their books, suggesting it had absorbed the text of their works without proper authorization or compensation. These lawsuits raise questions about the ethical and legal boundaries of AI’s interaction with copyrighted content and the black-box nature of Large Language Models (LLMs).

This legal battle also highlights potential future conflicts involving academic journals and LLMs. There is speculation that academic journals might consider legal action against AI companies for copyright infringement. As some journals restrict access to their copyrighted content, the question arises: Can LLMs recreate copyrighted information using alternative sources, such as news reports, abstracts, and citations from the open-access scholarship?

The outcomes of the ongoing lawsuits involving the authors and OpenAI could influence academic journals and publishing companies to take legal action if they find evidence of copyright infringement.

Personal Opinion: The lawsuits brought against OpenAI by authors Sarah Silverman, Mona Awad, and Paul Tremblay raise crucial questions about copyright infringement in the context of AI-generated content. The concern over LLMs like ChatGPT potentially absorbing copyrighted material without proper authorization is valid and warrants legal examination. These cases underscore the importance of transparency in AI development, ensuring that AI models are trained on legally obtained and appropriately credited data.

The speculation surrounding potential lawsuits by academic journals against AI companies also highlights the broader challenges LLMs pose in scholarly publishing. As discussions around open access and copyright intensify, AI developers and academic institutions must collaborate to establish ethical guidelines for using AI-generated content in academic research.

Furthermore, the article rightly points out the limitations of LLMs as research tools. While they can provide a starting point for research, scholars and librarians must remain cautious about relying solely on AI-generated content. The potential biases and gaps in training data must be acknowledged, and users should continue to evaluate and curate information from diverse sources critically.

Ultimately, the evolving landscape of generative AI requires a comprehensive approach that considers legal, ethical, and scholarly dimensions. As AI continues to shape research and scholarship, educators should actively engage students in discussions about the benefits and limitations of AI tools, encouraging them to view AI-generated content as a valuable supplement rather than a definitive source.

#LLMs #AcademicResearch #EthicalAI #AIandCopyright #OpenAI #LegalChallenges #ResearchTools #BiasInAI #AcademicJournals #ScholarshipEthics #ResearchEthics #FutureOfAI #FairUse #

Evaluating ChatGPT’s Effectiveness in Answering Library Reference Questions

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Article: How Well Can ChatGPT Answer Library Reference Questions? – Choice 360

Authors: Sandy Hervieux and Amanda Wheatley are academic librarians with expertise in information literacy, artificial intelligence, and user services. Sandy is the Head of the Nahum Gelber Law Library at McGill University, and Amanda is an Associate Librarian at the same institution. Their research interests revolve around reference services, user experience, and the impact of AI on library services. 

#ChatGPT #LibraryReference #InformationLiteracy #AIinLibraries #Librarians #AcademicLibrarians #ResearchInterest

Summary

The rise of ChatGPT has sparked discussions among librarians regarding its potential impact on information validity, user evaluation, and the future of reference services. Two academic librarians decided to put ChatGPT to the test by asking it four reference questions based on their own virtual reference service. The goal was to assess its ability to provide accurate and helpful information.

Reference Question 1 – Dataset on Church Attendance Rates in the US (1950-2000): ChatGPT offered some valuable starting points for finding the dataset but lacked clarity on the curated datasets and where to find them. Additionally, it suggested sources like the National Center for Health Statistics, which needed to be more relevant. While it encouraged users to evaluate credibility, consulting a librarian for further assistance should have been recommended. ChatGPT provided some direction, but undergraduate students may require more guidance on this complex topic. 

Reference Question 2 – Obituary of Ruth Bader Ginsburg: ChatGPT demonstrated its limitations by lacking real-time internet access and providing only suggestions for finding the obituary. A librarian would be better suited to give an exact answer, but ChatGPT’s suggestions were reasonable. 

Reference Question 3 – Scientific Articles and Consumer Reports in the Travel Industry: ChatGPT recommended various databases but overlooked sources specifically for industry reports. It also mentioned TripAdvisor, which does not contain industry information. The guidance needed more details on searching for peer-reviewed journals and evaluating sources. 

Reference Question 4 – Primary Source on the Fall of the Berlin Wall: ChatGPT provided a valuable recommendation for a fictional primary source, showcasing its predictive nature. When asked about the book’s authors, it clarified its limitations and provided alternative primary sources. This interaction highlights the importance of teaching users to use ChatGPT effectively and continue critically evaluating sources. 

Conclusion: ChatGPT offers some assistance in answering reference questions, but its limitations, such as no real-time internet access and predictive responses, call for cautious usage. Librarians remain crucial in guiding users, offering specialized research skills, and ensuring information credibility. As librarians navigate the integration of AI, collaboration with AI tools can enhance the user experience. Still, human expertise remains essential for reliable and accurate information access. 

Article – CHATGPT: A LIBRARY PERSPECTIVE

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An online article written by Allison Papini (Krupp Library, Bryant University) on using ChatGPT, an AI language model, in academic settings. It highlights the potential benefits of using ChatGPT for enhancing library services, such as providing instant and personalized assistance to patrons. It emphasizes the importance of librarians in curating and managing information, ensuring ethical use of AI technologies, and promoting information literacy among users.

URL- https://library.bryant.edu/chatgpt-library-perspective

Giving good feedback

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The article explains how to give feedback at work without feeling awkward. It suggests framing the feedback in a positive light, being specific about the issue, and offering solutions or suggestions for improvement. It emphasizes the importance of providing feedback in a constructive and respectful manner for the benefit of both the receiver and the organization.

URL: https://lifehacker.com/how-to-give-good-feedback-at-work-without-feeling-awkwa-1850454133

My Journey as an Expat Librarian in the Middle-East

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Working as an expat in the Middle East can be a rewarding and unique experience. I had the opportunity to work at an International Graduate Research University in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for almost 10 years. During that time, I experienced great joy and satisfaction and faced challenges. This blog post will explore what it is like to work as a librarian in a multicultural setting and how families adapt to life overseas.

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The Role of a Librarian in the Middle East

Libraries are an essential part of any educational institution, and this is especially true in the Middle East, where access to information and knowledge is highly valued. Librarians in this region have a crucial role in supporting students, faculty, and researchers. They are responsible for selecting, organizing, and managing collections of books, journals, and other resources and providing instruction on how to use these materials effectively.

One of the unique challenges of working as a librarian in the Middle East is the diversity of languages and cultures one encounters. Many universities in this region have many international students and faculty, meaning librarians must be able to work with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. This can be both exciting and challenging, as librarians must be able to communicate effectively with people who may have very different expectations and needs.

Another challenge is navigating the cultural norms and expectations of the region. In some Middle Eastern countries, there may be restrictions on certain types of content, and librarians must be aware of these limitations and work within them. They must also be sensitive to cultural differences in privacy, gender, and religion.

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Adapting to Life Overseas

For expat families, adapting to life overseas can be exciting and daunting. There are many new experiences to be had but also many challenges to navigate. Some of the most common challenges include:

Culture Shock: Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, and it can take time to adjust to the new culture, language, and customs. This can be particularly challenging for children, who may leave behind friends and familiar surroundings.

Language Barrier: Even in countries where English is widely spoken, there may be language barriers to overcome. Learning some basic phrases in the local language can be helpful, but hiring a language tutor or enrolling in language classes may also be necessary.

Finding Community: Expats often need help building a support network in a new country. Joining expat groups or clubs can be an excellent way to meet others in similar situations.

Homesickness: Even with all the new experiences and adventures, it’s normal to feel homesick occasionally. Keeping in touch with family and friends back home and maintaining familiar routines and activities can help alleviate these feelings.

Education: Finding a suitable school for children can be challenging, especially if the expat family has specific educational needs or preferences. Language barriers can also make it challenging to communicate with school staff, which can impact the child’s education.

Health Concerns: The climate and environmental conditions in the Middle East can be harsh, and expat families may need to take extra precautions to avoid heat stroke, dehydration, and other health problems. They may also need vaccinations or take other precautions to prevent illness.

Despite these challenges, many expat families find that the benefits of living overseas far outweigh the difficulties. Exposure to new cultures, languages, and experiences can broaden one’s perspective and lead to personal growth and development. Additionally, many expat families enjoy a higher standard of living and the opportunity to travel and explore new places.

Working as a librarian in the Middle East can be a challenging and rewarding experience. It requires an open mind, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity. Expat families also face challenges when moving overseas, but they can thrive in this unique environment with the proper support and attitude. Ultimately, the experience of living and working in the Middle East can be a life-changing adventure that broadens horizons, expands perspectives, and creates memories that will last a lifetime.

My Travels – Bahrain 2012

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Young Librarians Changing Libraries In Africa

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In this week’s Princh Library Blog, we share an article by Ramune Petuchovaite, Public Library Innovation Programme Manager at EIFL. The article reflects on the impact librarians who participated in the Initiative for Young African Library Innovators (IYALI) program had on their communities and networks.This article was originally posted on EIFL’s blog. To see

Source: Young Librarians Changing Libraries In Africa