My current projects in the library have changed. As I am now a restaurateur and can only actively participate in library projects every now and then, I still find time and ways to contribute by doing the following.
Supporting Library Makerspace Activities
Libraries are evolving to meet the changing needs of their communities. Old libraries with dusty books are now being used for more activities. Fortunately, the community is now learning that libraries can be much more than places to read quietly,
Training Non-librarian Staff
I am working to mentor and support non-librarian staff in a special library setting. The special library in question is a quaint, small one in La Union, Philippines. I charge a minimal fee for my services, because it is still my time I am dispensing (time I could use to make money selling food in my restaurant). But I still consider these current projects my outreach,
Why I do this: by recognizing the valuable contributions that staff from diverse backgrounds can bring to the library profession, we can foster a collaborative and inclusive environment that enhances the services we offer.
Let’s never gatekeep anything, especially when it comes to literacy. Librarians are not the only ones who can work in a library. Maybe I should add raising paralibrarian awareness to my current projects.
So, yeah, I am teaching non-librarian staff the basics of library work.
My trainees are all very passionate about research and are committed to making the library an inclusive place where people can discover and expand their potential. Their passion is one of the reasons why I am including this mentorship to my current projects.
Email me rubygalvez(at)gmail(dot)com if you want me to teach your non-librarian staff how to organize and establish a functional library from scratch. I can teach via zoom or I can create a guidebook for your staff.