Blount County Public Library Maryville, TN
Location Description
The Blount County Public Library is the primary public library for Blount County, Tennessee, and operates as a department of Blount County. It is housed in a 90,000 square foot facility in downtown Maryville. The library circulates approximately 500,000 items (print and non-print) annually. The Reference Department currently averages 1,000 patron interactions per month. This includes both reference and technical questions and directional / print interactions. This is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience serving patrons who have a wide range of technical expertise, who are looking for information on a variety of topics, including archives/genealogy questions. As a public library, we serve patrons from a variety of ages, interests and technological skills, always striving for excellent customer service. This position will provide opportunities for practical and realistic public library reference experience while working in a supportive team environment. The staff understands that the successful student will be gaining experience in how to operate in the unique public environment and is encouraged to offer gentle guidance.
Practicum Work Mode
On site
Semesters or Time Period Available
Fall
Location
508 N. Cusick St.
Maryville, TN 37804
http://www.blountlibrary.org
Contact
Kathleen Christy
Manager of Reference Department
kchristy@blounttn.org
8652731433
Student Tasks
Practicum Student Job Responsibilities:
• Provide excellent face-to-face customer service to support the information access and educational needs of customers
• Provide one-on-one technological instruction and assistance to patrons as needed, including but not limited to: troubleshooting computer problems; scanner; databases; internet searches and genealogy research
• Under the oversight of a professional librarian, the student will work on a project which will be decided by the Manager of the Reference Department and the student based on the student’s needs and goals. Possibilities include:
• Assess reference collection, make recommendations for weeding, and provide suggestions to replace the weeded items
• Prepare and teach adult workshops on technology and library resources
• Creating bibliographies for the library website
Type of Mentoring Provided to the Student
Mentoring will include general guidance, working with UT SIS’ Practicum instructor, discussing and overseeing possible projects which support the student’s educational goals, and regular meetings with the student.
Pending the requirements of the practicum, the student will work approximately 10 hours per week (or more at discretion of the student); the specific days and times will depend on the student’s schedule. The library is open Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sundays 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Student Interaction With Others at the Location
Student interactions will include interacting with patrons who have varied experiences, abilities, education, and personalities.
The Reference Team currently has four full-time staff and one part-time employee with Master’s Degrees. The Reference Team offers supportive interactions with students.