East Tennessee State University Library
Location Description
About Sherrod Library
Sherrod Library is the academic library of East Tennessee State University, serving a diverse student population of approximately 14,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Located in the scenic region of East Tennessee, the library plays a central role in supporting the university’s teaching, learning, and research mission. Practicum students at Sherrod Library have the opportunity to gain valuable, real-world experience while working within a collaborative and student-centered academic environment.
Practicum Work Mode
On site
Semesters or Time Period Available
Ongoing, not limited to a specific semester
Location
344 J L Seehorn Jr Rd
Johnson City, TN 70665
https://libraries.etsu.edu/home
Contact
Jonathan Wilson
Outreach & Distance Library Services Coordinator
Wilsonjr3@etsu.edu
4237075608
Student Tasks
Gain experience planning and teaching information literacy instructional sessions as well as creating supplementary educational materials.
Gain experience planning and executing library events and programs related to student engagement, success, and well-being.
Gain experience in finding and implementing ways of connecting students, faculty, and staff, with library resources.
Gain experience in providing reference desk services.
Gain knowledge and experience with basic cataloging and classification techniques, tools, and supporting operations.
Type of Mentoring Provided to the Student
Gain Real-World Experience at ETSU’s Sherrod Library!
Are you looking for a dynamic, hands-on practicum that brings your coursework to life? Sherrod Library at East Tennessee State University offers an enriching practicum experience where students are immersed in the fast-paced and collaborative environment of academic librarianship.
Practicum students will:
Support and staff the research help desk (in person and via chat)
Provide one-on-one research assistance to students
Attend and assist with library instruction sessions across disciplines
Design and publish a campus-wide student newsletter
Explore outreach tools like Constant Contact and Navigate
Participate in library events, workshops, and committee meetings
Help train and mentor student Library Ambassadors
This is a well-rounded opportunity to build skills in reference services, instruction, outreach, and library communications. Practicum students are treated as team members and are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge in meaningful and practical ways.
Join a supportive team, make valuable professional connections, and gain the experience you need to launch your career in academic librarianship!
Student Interaction With Others at the Location
Practicum Opportunity at ETSU’s Sherrod Library
While completing a practicum at ETSU's Sherrod Library, students will have the opportunity to work closely with a variety of library faculty and staff, gaining experience across multiple departments. Practicum students will assist with desk coverage and provide research support through one-on-one appointments as part of the Research & Instruction Services team.
Additional responsibilities include:
Retrospective cataloging projects with the Government Information, Law, & Maps Department
Outreach activities in collaboration with the Outreach & Distance Services Librarian
Instructional support alongside the Instruction Librarian
Hands-on experience with emerging technologies and daily operations in the Innovation Commons (makerspace)
Participation in library working groups and committee meetings
This practicum offers a well-rounded introduction to the diverse and collaborative work of an academic library, preparing students for a variety of professional roles in the field.