Name: Gemma Siemensma

Position: Senior Librarian

Qualification:

BA(Library and Information Science)

Diploma of Library and Information Studies

Cert. IV in Assessment and workplace Training

Organisation: Ballarat Health Services

Previous positions: Library Officer, Technical Services Officer, Library Technician, Librarian. I have worked in both public and medical libraries.

What’s great about your job?

Variety. I get to do so many different things and implement so many new projects. I am forever learning new things.

What’s the most fun experience you’ve had at work?

Being a “test” patient for the medical student exams. 12 fake operations in 3 hours!!

Describe a typical day at work.

All sorts of things! Inter-library loans, training, work projects, reference work, literature searches, journal accessioning, designing library web page, electronic journal maintenance and the list goes on.

What do you find rewarding and challenging about you job?

I like helping people find the information they need, and more importantly helping them become independent learners so that next time they can do it themselves. The joy when they find what they are looking for is great, and even better when they learn how to find it for themselves. Challenging include keeping up with new trends and issues, in particular IT. Implementing and learning new systems is rewarding but at the same time very challenging. I also love it when I am thanked (especially with chocolates or flowers!!)

What are the personal skills & attributes that you need to do this job?

In my job you definitely need patience. You need to be efficient, courteous, helpful, flexible, open minded and adaptable. You have to enjoy yourself and just take things as they come.

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