Hello All!
Looking for advice, suggestions, experiences as I jump into this new career. I recently completed my MLIS this past December, but I have been working in library for almost two years now as a library associate. This is not my first career but rather a pivot after almost 20ish years of work. I am working at library system in Oregon and I really enjoy where I am at, but I'm worried that because of my eagerness that I may be seen as more of an irritation than an asset to the organization.
For context, I have spoken multiple times with HR and my supervisor about my career goals being that I want to become a full time librarian when a position becomes available, but I can wait patiently for the time being because I have enjoyed my associate position since it worked well for my when I was in school. In addition to this I continually have conversations with my supervisor about ways we can improve library resources and procedures and I have even joined a committee here to demonstrate my willingness to be engaged in positive change for the library system.
Recently I brought up a suggestion regarding our library bike locks that staff currently places on patron bikes as needed, but it is not checked out to patrons which differs from what many other library systems do. I put together a proposal that would benefit everyone from staff to the patrons and would provide a way to track the bike lock usage. I even located information where the library could apply for a grant to assist with this project. About a week after I submitted this to my manager and he asked to forward it to the branch manager, I found out that she was using my idea when having a meeting with administration but not giving me credit. Part of me is not trying to be frustrated that I wasn't given credit for it because when considering the big picture it would be incredibly beneficial for our unhoused patrons, but I also am trying to work towards a librarian position and I would like credit to demonstrate my future potential as a librarian.
This time I'm going to let it go, but it does leave me concerned about future idea proposals, etc. I love coming up with ideas and solutions and I understand that not all will be accepted, but at least I know I've at least said my peace and will continue to try and make the library better.
What I'm looking for from this great bunch is thoughts, ideas, experiences. Please let me know if you think I'm coming on too strong with working towards another position because I definitely don't want to be seen as an irritant.
Thanks all!
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Meghan Thompson
Library Associate
Jackson County Library Services
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