In our first semester of library school, Dr. Hersberger assured us in her calm, matter-of-fact way, that there was a niche for each of us in the library world, giving us tips on how we might find this niche if it wasn't apparent.
Even though she spoke to the whole class, the others dropped away when she said this, and I heard her speak to me alone.
She upset my entire plan, and allowed me to dare to seek my ideal library niche.
As much as I love children and literature for children, I love being free to roam the library field, imagining where I fit the best.
Most of my classes have had projects involving topics of our choice, and I have chosen science and biology topics rather than the type of children's lit or humanities topics I usually choose.
This has given me confidence that I can research, understand and relate information about topics outside my comfort zone.
It also dawned on me that if the information exists, as a future Librarian, I should be able to find it. This knowledge is empowering because I have been flummoxed by how to get from here to there on several areas of my life.
I now know that if I can formulate the question, I can find the answer.
I started Library School because I figured if I had to work a real job, the Library was a good setting. I planned on being an elementary school librarian because I could finally use my teaching certificate in a viable way after 30 years of disuse.
I figured I had just about enough work life left in me to prevent being a burden to my children in my old age.
Throughout our trials, I always figured I'd worry about myself later.
When my youngest child left home, that time began.
But Dr. Hersberger invited me to dream and explore--things I love, and by dreaming and exploring, I am learning where my niche lies and where it does not.
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