Former students talk about the LIT program.
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Caroline
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Caroline Whitcomb is a library assistant at the Contra Costa Campus Library of California State University, Hayward. We asked her some questions about her job, and she gave the following responses:

What is library technology all about?
"Library technology is about processing information so that people can access it easily."

How did you become interested in working as a library technician?
"When I returned to college, I had to start using the library. As I spent more time in the library, I found that I really liked being in a place where people were inspired to learn new things. I wanted to pass that inspiration on to others. "

What is your job?
"Currently, I work at the California State University, Hayward - Contra Costa Campus Library as a library assistant II.  I am responsible for the circulation, serial and reserve modules and some bibliographic maintenance. I also assist patrons with simple reference questions."

What do you like the most about this job? What do you like least?
"I like the sense of teamwork and diversity. Because of that diversity, I like all aspects of my job."

What type of person should consider becoming a library technician? "Library staff must be flexible because of the many different needs and expectations of the patrons. I would look for a person with a good work ethic, friendly smile and a willingness to learn."

What other types of jobs would you be prepared for with your education and background in library technology ?
"Any job where information is used on a regular basis. Information needs to be retrieved, organized, accessed and utilized. The library and information technology program teaches you these fundamentals and that knowledge can be taken into any field."

Do you think there are--and will continue to be--plenty of jobs for library technicians in the Bay Area?
"I think so. Approximately 60% of a library's work force is composed of non-librarians. (Source: Wheeler, Maurice B., Ph.D. Meeting 21st Century Challenges: Professional Development for Library Support Staff COLT Conference, April 8, 1999, Detroit, Michigan.) Some of these positions were once held by librarians who are instead developing easier ways to access information. If you can simplify or improve an employer's informational needs, you will be an asset to that organization."

Did the DVC Library and Information Technology courses help you get the job?
"Yes. I volunteered at my present job for the Cooperative Work-Study class and was hired. When I came to this job, I understood the concept of library services along with library terminology. This background knowledge gave me the confidence to train well and do my job efficiently. "

Any other comments about this career field or the DVC program?
"Go for it! You will be able to use the knowledge from this program in your personal and professional life. Knowledge is power, so pass it on."

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