I started at Council as a casual shelver in the Libraries, while I was completing my Bachelor of Journalism/ Bachelor of Arts (History) at the University of Wollongong. I was encouraged to step up into new roles at the Libraries by my manager at the time, and I’m so glad I’ve stayed – even if my mother still hopes I’ll make it back to journalism one day. I recently completed my Masters of Information Studies (Librarianship), which I was supported through by Council’s Study Assistance Scheme – so I think I might stick with being a librarian for now!
The best part of my job is definitely helping our customers who walk through the door of the library each day. I spend a lot of time preparing and delivering digital literacy programs, but I love the time I can help out a customer with their printing or connecting to wifi. You definitely feel a sense of satisfaction when you’ve been able to help someone with technology and they tell you that they now feel less isolated and cut-off. It’s just really nice to be able to help people.
I think people don’t realise how essential public libraries are. We’re there to help everyone – from the elderly pensioner who needs help printing their holiday itinerary to being a place where a parent feels comfortable sending their kids to hang out after school.
I truly love my job – and I don’t think anyone at Council has a better job – except maybe the gardeners!