“IF WE HAVE IT – YOU GET IT, IF WE DON’T

HAVE IT – WE GET IT”

The motto of the library in IBTS

Librarian embedded into an Organisation This is an overview of the career of an

integrated librarian, Niamh O Sullivan.

The IBTS Library

The IBTS Library is a well respected part of the IBTS organisation. There is a vested interest among all sections of the organisation. Library is a neutral entity and not aligned or in favour of any particular aspect of the IBTS. It is well respected in the organisation and a vital component in the successful running of the IBTS

Niamh O Sullivan Research Officer/ Librarian in the IBTS

located within the IBTS Headquarters Sole Librarian with one library assistant Liasing with eight different blood banks

around the country (communication via intranet)

Institutionally embedded too! The Library is situated in the core of the

IBTS Headquarters

This is not a job for the inexperienced!!After Niamh received the graduate diploma in Library and Information studies she has worked in various different positions in different countries Worked in large academic and public libraries Cataloguer Temping in small specialist library Worked in Ireland, the UK and the US

Preparation for Research Officer Position Had previous experience in Solo Library Research on the organisation Imagined what would do if had position

– Niamh recommended they make a website (this was 1999) or if she were in the role she would do it, which she did!

Got feedback from blood donors

Skills and Qualities People Skills – be approachable Communication skills – understand their

needs Level of Professionalism Interest in subject Dependable Consistent Organised

The strength of the Information ProfessionalNiamh did not have any medical qualification or background. However, she is the “go to” person for information in the IBTS. This demonstrates the strength of research method, evaluating information and navigating databases and the web.After 13 years, she has gained an in depth knowledge into the research and the organisations goals and objectives

Niamh has also constructed IBTS database for research

Knowing your Audience Niamh has worked as the IBTS research officer

since 1999. She has a great insight into her patrons and is able to tailor her research to their needs. Her personal knowledge that has been acquired over the years is indispensable. They trust her and communications are fantastic between Niamh and the medical staff.

Niamh knows her patrons. She knows their research habits and what type of information they favour i.e. whether they would be more interested in a peer reviewed article as opposed to ground breaking research.

A Day in the Life of a Research Officer Answering and sending emails. Attending to sorting lists,

email alerts and mailing lists

Uploading information to the Intranet

Library training – to improve user ability

Circulate Online Publications

Housekeeping; cleaning, cataloguing, organisation of data

Guest presentations, internal workshops Niamh meets fortnightly with the HR manager to discuss the

upkeep, prospects and management of the library

What Niamh likes best about her job Variety – No one day is the same

Being a part of a Team

Sense of Achievement – the information that Niamh locates could prove vital for breakthroughs in blood donations

People Aspect – Interacting with others which also leads to a more positive work environment

Implications for the Library due to the current economic climateIn October 2011, Lucy, a library assistant retired from her post. There are no plans to replace her. Niamh is determined to maintain the same quality service and so has asked the patrons to give: Efficient time given to lead up time for

queries Specification when sourcing articles Correct and full references Photocopying practically

Drawbacks to the RetirementUnfortunately the library desk service will not be as accessible as it once was.

The library at IBTS is always open to those seeking to access information as they can sign in but there might be noone at the information desk

The virtual library is available to staff around the country and at any time

Niamh’s achievements Set up the official website

Next slide is a screen shot of the Homepage

Niamh’s achievements Developed and maintains the Intranet

Keeping up to date through news alerts

Former projects Niamh has helped to promote in the IBTS

Librarian as teacherNiamh regularly gives guest presentations to the LIS community and/ or those interested in the work she undertakes. Due to this success and her technology skills, she has been asked by the IBTS to organise workshops that focus on information literacy and presentation skills. These courses are organised from the end of March and all through April 2012

Presentation Tips and Tricks Web Searching Skills Basic PubMed Searching Advanced PubMed Searching

Guest SpeakingNiamh has spoken at many events, the most impressive at the LIS annual convention, workshop at LEER, and her promotion of the organisation is fantastic.At these events, she gives out IBTS branded pens and ponchos. Her constant promotion and dedication has helped to keep others aware of the work that the IBTS does

My feelingsFor my personal reflection on this experience go to my ePortfolio

http://marylou89.wordpress.com/about/