Danielle M. Cowles
ALA Divisions:
Intelligent, creative, advocate.
I usually read several books at a time, including audiobooks. I am reading "Afghanistan: A Short History of Its People and Politics" by Martin Ewans and "A History of Witchcraft: The study of magic and necromancy through the ages" by Dr. Susan Greenwood. Additionally, I am listening to "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean.
Advancement, learning, leadership.
As a MLS student I know that having connections to professional organizations, such as the ACRL and the ALA, will help me understand the qualities of librarianship and aid me in learning more about the field and helping me to make relationships that will help me throughout my career.
My main career goal is to help others. Working within a library, especially an Academic library will allow me to help others. I want to advocate for those that need it. Working with first-generation and non-traditional students would be the ideal way for me to engage with my community and assist individuals who are seeking higher education but that may need other resources to succeed. That is where I come in.
As I approach my graduation in December, I become more aware of the responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of all librarians. It is daunting. I was fortunate enough to perform my practicum at the University of Texas in San Antonio (UTSA) at the John Peace Library (JPL) under the tutelage of Natasha Arguello, Head of Research and Education Services. Through my experience, I learned how valuable the resources that Academic libraries provide. I was able to interact with students and observe my colleagues as they educated the students, many of whom are first-generation, or non-traditional. These students may have a different baseline with which they approach higher education, thereby their needs may be different. It is the job of Academic librarians to ensure that ALL students have access to the resources that the library provides. I look forward to helping students gain the access they need, teaching them about resources and using the new technologies, that have yet to be created, to assist the next generation.
Title:MLS Student
Workplace:Texas Woman's University
Location:Denton, Texas