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What An Outreach Librarian At State Library Wishes They Had Known Before Entering Librarianship
Clarisa, an Outreach Librarian, wishes someone had prepared them for the emotionally taxing aspects of the role, describing it as "hard coming into work and hearing about someone who's struggling," while also highlighting the rewarding connections formed with community members over time: "I've helped high school students write their college essays...and then they'll come back and they'll say, thank you so much." The job's emotional toll necessitates establishing boundaries between work and personal life to maintain a healthy balance.
Community Engagement, Social Work, Emotional Support, Helping Others, Work-Life Balance
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Clarisa Arguello
Outreach Librarian
State Library
Florida International University, 2008
University of Miami, 2014, Master of Arts in International Administration (MAIA)/ Florida State University, 2016, Master of Science in Library and Information
Education
Government & Public Sector
Communication and Marketing
HSI Grad, Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Immigrant, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. It's more than just reading; Outreach Librarians provide crucial support to community members facing various challenges such as finding resources, applying for programs, and navigating difficult life circumstances.
2. The role involves significant emotional investment and can be draining at times, requiring the ability to balance helping others with maintaining personal well-being.
3. Building meaningful relationships with community members and witnessing their growth over time is a rewarding aspect of the job, creating a sense of positive impact and community connection.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
It's definitely not about reading all the time, though I do enjoy it. Not everyone who works in a library loves to read.
I wish someone had told me that it can be hard sometimes. It can be difficult to hear about someone struggling and only be able to refer them to an organization or program.
Sometimes you find out what happens to the people you help, but other times you don't. You can only offer what you can and hope they thrive and find their way.
I think it would have been nice to know that upfront. I’ve done story time with kids who are now grown and remember it fondly.
I've also helped high school students with college essays, edited their work, and assisted with FAFSA applications and first jobs. They often return to express their gratitude.
I've helped parents whose children are struggling with reading. I even enjoy it when people at the supermarket recognize me and call me "library lady."
It’s rewarding to know you've made a difference, but it can also be draining. Learning to separate your work from your personal life is important.
Having downtime is crucial. That’s why I like plants.
Advizer Personal Links
linkedin.com/in/clarisa-arguello