Thursday, April 29, 2010

RU update

I see that Sue has told you about our interviews and new appointments. We are absolutely thrilled. I can add that we were told that we both interviewed well and that it was clear that our experience at the Academy influenced our responses to questions. So, I really need to thank Pat, Karin and Colin for the positive input, and fantastic program we experienced at the Academy. I felt confident for the first time in a long time. With Linda as my new boss, and Jill as Sue's new boss, I know that we can give positive input to not only our new jobs, but also to the new service sructure of Rhodes Library. Pieter has already been amazing and sent us a tip to help us get on our way. You are a star!! We shall keep you posted

Website with free video lectures and animations

Congrats to the new Subject Librarians at Rhodes - it's great news.

My boss sent this website with video lectures and animations http://www.learnerstv.com/. It's not just for Natural Sciences, but covers a wide variety of topics. Maybe you can also find it helpful during training.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Dear all

If you want to browse through some photographs of our two weeks... you're welcome to do so on Picasa:

http://picasaweb.google.com/roux.marie4/ResearchLibrariesConsortiumLibraryAcademy#

New Positions !!

Our interviews went smoothly and Debbie and I are now Faculty Librarians. I have joined Jill in the Commerce faculty and Debbie has joined Linda in the Humanities. We start in our new posts from the 1 May 2010 but until our present positions are filled we will be sharing our time between the two posts. The interviews for both of us went smoothly. I'm sure that this was due to the confidence and indirect preparation that our participation in the Academy gave us. Thank you to all the people that were rooting for us.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Now it's over...

Just a quick note to hope that everyone has arrived home safely. The Rhodes contingent all made it safely to PE.

I didn't have a chance during the last few days to put my thanks to everyone at the Academy in writing.

It was an amazing experience, lots of hard work but then anything worthwhile usually is!! I know that we still have a lot of work ahead of us too but now I feel equipped to cope with it. I feel privileged to have made the acquaintance of so many special librarians - thank you guys. I have many, many special memories to treasure not only of the lectures and workshops but also of the wonderful ties that were formed. Thank you to everyone who was a part of this experience.

Last but definitely not least, a huge thank you to those who held the Rhodes library together while so many staff were away. We wouldn't have been able to take part in this learning experience if it wasn't for you and now we are looking forward to sharing what we have learnt.

Friday, April 23, 2010

Last day @ the Academy

A word of thanks to Pat, Colin and Karin for making this Academy works. I definitely have something to take away with me - a new knowledge, a well said wisdom and the new friends I made here. Good luck to all. Pavlinka



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Then disaster struck

On a high arriving on the 11th April 2010 I was ready for the new adventure in my live. Two weeks of research learning. After 3 days I was totally confused. I have learned nothing about research but heard a lot of it. Suddenly the light appeared. Duh look at the big picture and everything was fine again. Enjoying the presenters, some of them, the first week was over. Going to the Strand with Ina, Gerda and Tertia the weekend couldn’t start better but then disaster struck. I’m starting to feel ill. Stop at the pharmacy get medicine and off again. Sunday didn’t felt better and instead of going to the V&A stayed in bed. Monday morning I’m off to the doctor. Luckily it was only bronchitis but still was bound to bed for 2 more days. Monday and Tuesday, the two days that I really looked foreword to but was not meant to be. I guess I gave the term embedded librarian a whole new meaning. For me the 2 days was a big loss. I will definitely look at the presentations. From Wednesday I was back again and learned more everyday.
Thank you to all of you that were concerned. It was 2 weeks of hard work and fun. To my pool and darts friends I’m sorry you beet me. Maybe when we meet again I will be on the winning side. To Karin, Colin and Pat thank you for the program the help on the report and the organizing off the whole program and setting. To our mom, Hilda, thank you for the support and to UP for sending me on this program. Last but not least, thank you for all that made this a wonderful experience.

Final thoughts ...

“There is nothing like looking, if you want to find something. You certainly usually find something, if you look, but it is not always quite the something you were after.” - JRR Tolkien

I found many things I weren't necessarily looking for, and also expect this to happen with my own research. Thank you all for making this a great experience.

Ina

Last day at Mont Fleur

Thank you to everyone who organised this Academy and the Carnegie Foundation funding it. Thanks to UP management to let me be away for two weeks and the colleagues at Merensky who stood in for me.

To all the participants: Thanks for 2 weeks of a wonderful dynamic together. I learned a lot from each of you. Thanks for the Pool lessons and the patience with me. May you all be successful in your research and research commons. The relationships and networks we established in this 2 weeks I want to keep up as far as possible. So good bye for now and hope to hear from you and read of you in the scientific journals. What I learned from this academy was very enriching. The 1 week was about research in different fields and the global research environments. The last week was full of practical advise. Now the hard work is really starting.

The stay at Mont Fleur was wonderful. We got the 5 star treatment from the personnel, which I'm going to miss. The scenery was one in a million and beautiful photo's could be taken.

Regards
Julene

Appreciation

Dear Pat, I just want to thank you for a wonderful event you arraged. I truly enjoyed my stay at Mont Fleur, the beauty and serenity of this place is divine. The hospitality and the delicious food, the welcome and the warmth of the staff made me feel at home and even more!!!I appreciate the thoughtful gesture... I just want to say I really had a great time.

Bon Voyage, Veilige reis, Ube nohambo o luhle

Dear all, I wish you the best in your future endeavours. It has been a fantastic two weeks, you made it a cruise you are the best. I tnak you all from the bottom of my heart.

Dear Colin and Karin, I have enjoyed the time that I have spent with you. As a result of your dedication, knowledge and guidence I have much deeper understanding and respect of librariaship as a profession. I have learned so very much from you with your help and support I am sure I will be able to write my research paper.

Thursday, April 22, 2010

A heavy heart

It's with a heavy heart that I realise this was the last evening we had dinner together. The first few days it was really hard for me to be surrounded by familiar and unfamiliar faces the whole time! But after these 2 weeks you all feel nearly like family...

The heavy heart is also because we will leave Mont Fleur tomorrow. What a wonderful beautiful place with wonderful people. Thank you for the biggest "bederf" ever...

The academic part of these two weeks was most of the time brilliant and the input we got so overwhelming that I need a month at least to just try to process it all. The inspiration we got from all presenters will be with us for a very long time and I think that is the most valuable thing I will take with me from here. I'm inspired to go back and implement some of what we learnt AND to work on my paper :-)

Good luck! And we'll stay in contact!

Last full day

I really enjoyed listening to Karin de Jager this morning - she is so passionate about research! Karin gave us some practical and useful ideas with regards to research we can do in our own libraries. As a practical person I appreciate this kind of presentation more than the ones with all the airy-fairy theoretical stuff. This is probably why I - in the end - also appreciated Prof Christie's presentation. (Do I hear someone say, "Yeah, looks can be deceiving"?). Although, I must say I felt a little less positive than he did! There lies a long and winding road ahead of me (and I'm not talking of the one back to Stellenbosch).

It was also a pleasure to listen to Archie Dick. But we already saw with the readings that he is worth listening to, didn't we?

These past two weeks have been like one long holiday, albeit a working one, and I'm really grateful that I could be part of this amazing inspiring experience. Thank you so much to everyone for your individual inputs - from Thandiwe to Pavlinka!

Sleep well and have a safe trip home

Carnegie Academy: The Class of April 2010

The Carnegie Academy, April 2010

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Thank you

I want to thank Karin, Colin and Pat for their hard work and for this wonderful two weeks. I learned many things and just to be part of this passionate environment I really got enspired. To hear and see what people do and how they reach their goals motivates me to go back with new enthusiasm to do my work and live my life.

Thank you very much and I also want to say thank you for all the staff of Mont Fleur for the wonderful service these two weeks.
It was great.
Thank you also for my library and the Carnegie who made it possible for me to attend this academy

Challenges facing libraries

Thursday (22 April):

Prof Richard Calland (Faculty of Law, UCT): Researching an under-theorised field: access to information, transparency and open government
- There has been a shift from 'Freedom of Information' to 'Access to Information'
- SA Constitution, Section 32 (1)(b): Right to information, also privately owned information where required for exercise or protection of rights
- Promotion of Access to Information Act 2000
- IFLA/FAIFE World Report Series

Prof Archie Dick (Dept. of Information Science, UP): Libraries and research

Prof Renfrew Christie (Dean of Research, UWC): University research development in South Africa
- Oxford University alone has more and better researchers than all of South Africa
- SA must internationalise its university research to improve its quantity and quality; whilst also transforming for the same purposes
- How SA university librarians can help to improve SA university research

Group work: Research support - are there differences between supporting undergraduates/researchers? What are these? We had a very constructive session and many ideas were generated, specifically on different support services that can be rendered to the two different groups.

Looking forward to our farewell dinner tonight!

Ina

Eureka

Hi All

I've been having trouble accessing the blog.

I had a light bulb moment this morning while reflecting on the experience of the Academy: Researchers are very passionate about their research and the work that they do. The reason that some, not all, researchers are unhappy with libraries, and librarians in particular, is that we have somehow failed to recognise the passion with which they approach their work. What I take away from this academy is the fact that I need to to begin to get excited about research and the work that researchers do so that I can begin to engage with them on that level of enthusiasm and excitement!

In the past two weeks I have met a bunch of really great people who are really committed to the work that they do and have enjoyed having discussions with them and believe that I have learnt much from them.

On the eve of the last day...

On the eve of the last day of the academy, and, I suppose, the eve of my embarking on a new career as a radical librarian, the following exercise in attempting to map the landscape of my thoughts: Since I am no master of economy of words yet, I’m going to be decidedly verbose in trying to describe which I feel now, which is actually, ‘at a loss for words’...

Privileged... for having been exposed to so much wisdom emanating from such an awe-inspiring cadre of intellectuals in such incredible surroundings.

Sad... for having to say goodbye to an inspirational group of professional ‘kinfolk’.

Passionate... as always for this calling of ours.

Afraid... of not being able to fulfil high expectations, of walking in big shoes and of treading new paths.

Disillusionment... for comfort zones have been shattered and safety blankets ripped away.

Empowered... with new knowledge and reaffirmation of old beliefs.

Small... in an overwhelming system of bureaucracy, admin and uncertainty,

... but brave in an overwhelming sphere of possibility.

Jittery? ... but that might just be the coffee!

Academy Reflections

We have just heard our last presenter for the Academy, today. It has been amazing week ; looking at research landscape, taking LEAPs, Yoga, Prof Thornton's concept exercise, Lisa's encouragement to see ourselves in the library and research world.
Mimi said we have slowed down to a hum this week. The adrenalin rush and extremely busy program of last week ended with the welcome reprise over ther weekend. This week has certainly been one for soul searching, and realising there may be things that we can do, and change, to achieve our own research goals, and to meet the expectations that our own Library, Academy organisers, and Carnegie expect from each of us.
While I have really missed home, I have really enjoyed this whole experience ; the learning, the exposure to all academic realities, the self-revelations, the peace from normal hectic life, not having to think about making food and laundry. Reading in peace. Not to forget the pampering and care from MontFleur staff ; an the extra weight I know I have gained. And lastly, meeting really great colleagues from other institutions whom I hope to continue to keep in contact with and make our own network of informed, knowledgable and collaborative colleagues. It seems we are the next generation and if this is so, I definitely need you.

Google Citation Gadget

Can also be embedded in your web page. A Google Scholar Universal Gadget which enables users to search for the total number of citations of author(s). It provides a total citation count, total number of cited publications and Jorge E. Hirsch's H-Index. Can't guarantee the accuracy, but seems ok for me ... did find one or two incorrect references though ... Maybe compare it with other citation tools first to test for accuracy.




http://code.google.com/p/citations-gadget/

Thornton articles FYI

* 'Imagine Yourself Set Down...': Mach, Frazer, Conrad, Malinowski and the Role of Imagination in Ethnography
* Author(s): Robert J. Thornton
* Source: Anthropology Today, Vol. 1, No. 5 (Oct., 1985), pp. 7-14
* Published by: Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland
* Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/3032822

* If Libraries Could Read Themselves: The New Biography of Frazer
* Author(s): Robert J. Thornton
* Source: Anthropology Today, Vol. 4, No. 2 (Apr., 1988), pp. 20-22
* Published by: Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland
* Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/3033235

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Kindle for schoolchildren in Africa

an interesting snippet:

Amazon.com Sending Kindles to Africa For Classroom Trials

From the Article:

A charity called Worldreader.org, which is attempting to boost literacy rates in the third world using technology, has persuaded Amazon to send a big pile of Kindle e-readers over to Africa.

Ghana’s Ministry of Education is running a trial to find out two things – firstly if the e-readers can pump up the percentage of Ghanian kids who who read, and secondly whether opting for ebooks can reduce some of the spending on textbooks that its schools are forced into. It’s being initially tested among 11-12-year-olds.

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Your rights online: UK University Researchers must make research data available

BBC: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/8623417.stm

AND

http://yro.slashdot.org/story/10/04/21/2156215/UK-University-Researchers-Must-Make-Data-Available

iPAD, Kindle: The e-book reader race

Read some of the commentaries on iPAD and Kindle:

Colin's contribution to this post is Publish or Perish: Can the iPAD topple the Kindle and save the book business?

More on iPAD:

More on Kindle:

For more info just Google (forget for a second that we are librarians!!!)

Pavlinka

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Crawling through the research landscape

Wednesday (21 April):

First wanted to update my blog entry from Tuesday before entering the research landscape ...

Prof Robert Thornton (WITS, Dept. of Anthropology) shared with us how to become 'one' with our research - literally crawling up mountains if it is necessary. Some useful tips from him:
- You don't know it until you write it
- There are no guarantees in research; projects fail and we do not always get to the end of the road
- Move to a land of ideas
- To enter, you must have theory (vision, a way of seeing a problem)
- Translate your vision into language ('linguification'). Ideas are all related to one another through language, thought and communication.
- Your research problem must be seen in the context of the landscape
- Problems: not all are solvable; some methods work better for some types of problems; problems may lead to new problems
- Good ideas never die; new ones are constantly born
- He shared some examples of entry narratives with us
- When you hit the boundary of your research, that is it. You can only go so far, and then your are stuck.
- Cross the landscape many times

Note to myself: be honest when conducting research.

The afternoon session was not quite my cup of tea. I do not like group discussions a lot, and I don't like to contribute just for the sake of contributing ... It all seems a bit artificial. Anyway - my opinion: unfortunately we are all part of a system, and we need to work within certain boundaries across the world. Myself - I thoroughly enjoy what I do, I have lots of space to be pro-active and to collaborate with others on campus, nationally and internationally, and my motivation comes from within.

Note: How about a pool table in the Research Commons? :)

Our night out: take the perfect venue, excellent food, wine from the Cape, Pavlinka, put it together and you have the perfect evening with lots of fun! ;) Thanks Pavlinka for the value you have added and will continue to add to the academy and to the library profession. Your passion and energy is great!

Ina

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Motivation

The session by Ms Shamiema McLeod reminded me that we often get so tied up in what we're doing and that we sometimes need to step outside of that and reflect ... perhaps a short reminder:
LEAP
Listen
Empathise
Agree
Partner

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The Research Landscape

What if we went snorkelling for research topics... Imagine that!

I thought this exercise by Prof. Thornton to be a particularly useful one. Think how it started off with a few random concepts - all concepts from one's personal frame of reference - and how these concepts may eventually form part of the metaphoric 'research landscape'.

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Entering the Research Landscape

I really enjoyed the exercise that Prof.Thornton gave us this morning. Confirmed for me that who we are (our personal identity) is intertwined with what we do (our professional identity) and it's this connection that makes us enjoy our work (and be good at it!).

Looking forward to our outing just now...

The Radical Librarians on the Loose


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Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Day 9: Library Academy

Boy, its been ages since I last visited the blog.

Today we sailed on the murky waters of ETHICS. The Oxford dictionary defines ethics as a set of principles concerning right and wrong and how people should behave. I wonder, whose standards of right or wrong am I being asked to conform to. Am I being asked, or compelled to comply? Is resistance futile? Who are these people who seem to know what behaviour is appropriate, and what behaviour is not?

I do believe I am caught on the horns of a dilemma. Is it a dilemma?

T

The Useable library

Interesting:

http://usablelibrary.org/

Useful links

Tuesday, 20 April 2010 we learned about data sets, archiving, research ethics and intellectual property. Watching episode of "House" and discussing it, was a brilliant idea. Eve Gray introduce us to 2010 trends and the future of "kindle" books in the library environment.

Eve Gray useful links:

Additional links recommended by Colin Darch:

I have created for the UJ Sciences Community an Open Access Portal to provide easy access to OA journals; Institutional Repositories; Publishers and Authors.

Julene contributed the link to the full-text of The Copy/South Dossier: Issues in the Economics, Politics, and Ideology of Copyright in the global South, Edited by Alen Story, Colin Darch and Debora Halbert

Pavlinka

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Archives, Access and Ethics

Tuesday (20 April):

I think we all are starting to feel a bit home-sick by now, and also feel the strain of a full and challenging program (37 presentations in 8 days!). The mountain walk was a nice distraction, and came at just the right time! :)



Dr Yasien Sayed (School of Molecular and Cell Biology, WITS) touched on a topic very close to my heart: Data sets, research raw materials, storage, digitising, re-using data for different purposes. Data leads to information, which leads to knowledge, and which become wisdom in the end. He said that data that has been collected and stored for serving the needs of a local research group can meet the needs of larger communities. Scientists like to share if it can lead to sharing (nationally & internationally). It is becoming more and more difficult to find funding if you work on your own. The library can provide a valuable partnership with the research community that ensures preservation and access to digital data. They are pro institutional repositories and publishing with open access journals. He sees the role of the library as very important in this regard. They are interested in most recent research, and make use of international contacts to get hold of an article if the library does not subscribe to it (by-passing ILL even).

My notes:
- Using electronic lab books is something they should look at (aka Dr Sayed)
- They are prepared to submit their own research output
- I think WITS has succeeded excellently in providing a seamless interface to information, because researchers are using the databases via Google without noticing it! Exactly what we want to achieve - ease of access.
- They also support the LOCKSS principle (lots of copies keep stuff safe)

Ms Michele Pickover (WITS, University Archives) is of the opinion that an archive is about the future rather than the past, which makes a lot of sense to me. We after all build the future on what we have learned from the past, don't we? She also referred to digitization, and projects such as DISA and ALUKA. Librarians should be neutral custodians of information.

Ethics is always a difficult one, and Dr Colin Darch and Ms Anne Pope - both from UCT - gave us the bigger picture. We watched an episode from "House", critically commented on the ethics of experimenting with people, etc. It made us definitely think. In a research environment it is different, and you need to conduct research in a responsible way, adhere in line with certain governmental acts and rules from your institution. This applies to both humans and animals. Know where to contact your Ethics Committee on campus and the procedures involved to get ethical clearance.

When it comes to copyright, I realised once again that money is the key driver behind everything. Dr Colin Darch once again challenged us with some difficult questions we had to think about.

Notes to myself:
- Remember the SPARC clause (Thanks Eve!)
- Researchers should be made aware of Creative Commons licensing options

Ms Eve Gray (UCT) is synonomous with open access, and it is always a treat to listen to her. Blogging, twittering, informal publications are all part of scholarly communication. It is expected that by 2012 more than 55% of all books will be in e-format. The publishing industry is a commercial system build on big money. Please refer to Pavlinka's blog entry for some useful links. About 80% of publishers now allow archiving in IR's.

Notes to myself:
- Our clients had to tell us about Kindl's etc ... they are way ahead of us it seems, and embrace new technologies! Quite embarassing ...
- Librarians should all be informed about open access

Ina

Monday: Picture of the Day

Picture of the Day: Spot the differences
Pavlinka


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Thoughts under misty mountain

I find the mood decidedly different this week, as if there has been a shift from the initial thrill and buzz to a more reflective and ponderous hum (the weather also plays its part). The places we've been in this short period of time have been quite astonishing and it takes time to sink in. I believe that the instruction we are getting this week have all of us squarely focused on our own research and it seems that some of us are getting the inspiration to start putting our pens on paper or fingers on keyboards (you know what I mean, the "shut up and write!" bit).
One thing I am seriously pondering this week though is how I am going to go back to work and put all the "radical" things I've been thinking about into practise and how I'm going to try and be an inspiration to my colleagues (oh I know that sounds so lame, but you get the drift...). So onwards upwards and outwards, here we go.

Another day in paradise....

I woke up to rain yesterday morning. Now I have experienced the beauty of Mont Fleur in yet another mood. In our walk yesterday afternoon, Ina, Mimi and myself were able to enjoy a countryside that had been washed and refreshed.
Yesterday's lectures complimented this mood. They were of such relevance, giving practical ideas about how to tackle our Research Proposals. Inspiring!!

Monday, April 19, 2010

Practicing research

Monday (19 April):

It has been a rainy day, and Mimi and I couldn't go for our usual morning walk/run. We made up for it by going for a walk with Sue (Rhodes) this afternoon. The after-the-rain smell was refreshing after a day of concentrating on more aspects of research. Enjoyed watching 2 DVD's I brought along. Shared it with our patient next door - hope he recovers soon!

The day that was:
Prof Karin de Jager (UCT)
It is fine to say the library is at the heart of the institution, but there should be a 'pulse'. Karin introduced the "Radical Librarian", which I liked very much :) Amongst many other things this librarian should be able to solve IT problems ...

Dr Colin Darch (UCT)
Subject librarians are highly territorial (and in my opinion, so are other areas in the library). Colin shared some ideas on how the role of the subject librarian should change to accommodate various needs of clients within a contemporary environment.

Prof Moragh Paxton (UCT) introduced us to different journals, and emphasised the importance of selecting the right journal to submit your paper to. She focused on writing a proper abstract and introduction.

The highlight for me was the talk by Prof Mary Nassimbeni (UCT). She gave a thorough and systematic talk on how to get a paper published. You will only be recognised as an expert if you publish what you know. A catchy title can help "sell" your paper.

The day was ended by Prof Robert Shell (UWC) on the topic of bibliometrics.

Notes to myself ...
- What about an SA Librarian Exchange program?
- What about establishing an SAOUG branch in the Western Cape?
- A proper designed and easy to use web site is very important!!!
- Each librarian should have a laptop
- Courses in IT maintenance for librarians? (was metioned that we need to be IT literate)
- Statistical software training is needed
- How to professionally design a ppt is needed
- Connect with participants from other Carnegie workshops through hosting a web conference maybe? (one of the facilitators indicated that they need to find a way to connect us with the participants from the previous academies)
- An alternative to "radical librarian" found on the web: "progressive librarian"
- I hope I can first share my article with a couple of mentors for a peer-pre-review before submitting it to the 'real' thing

Ina

Monday a reflection

Just when I thought I am ready to go home!!! I found today to be so practical and necessary. I mean this workshop is truly beyond my expectation by far. listening to Karin and Colin's view point really gave me perspective. I appreciate the efforts and the thoroughness that they applied in compiling this workshop. It was also a wonderful experience to engage in the practical analysis of journals and to understand the editor's and reviewer's view point.

Some more answers on Lisa Kane's questions...

What is it about libr* that I find exciting?
The thrill of helping someone, even if it is just to show the user where the book is he/she is looking for. In ILL a few years ago the biggest thrill was to find obscure items internationally, searching until you find exactly what the person is looking for. It does feel a bit like being a detective...

What is my earliest joyful memory related to libr*?
Being able to move over from the children's library to the "adult" library and being able to choose from the much bigger collection with "no boundaries"

I wish .... could be different
In my job and I'm sure yours as well, one always need more time to implement exciting new things. A magic time-management solution please...

What angers me about libr*?
I only get angry when I see a non-service attitude towards clients in libraries...

When I say library what comes to mind, visually?
Book shelves full of knowledge

Monday's thoughts

I did enjoy listening to the different viewpoints and approaches of research, last week. Theory is not my favourite thing, but I know we have to get to grips with it and understand it. I found last week to be very challenging, and tiring at the same time.
After a wonderful weekend's harbour sailing and Two Ocean's visit, together with some chatting and some sleep, I found myself ready for today.
And I enjoyed the presentations emmensely today. They were challenging, productive, interactive.
I am enjoying reading our blog posts. The one thing that strikes me, is that we seem to be in the same frame of mind ; sharing our stories, experiences, and working together. Working and thinking hard, and so enthusiatistcally. Many of us seem to have a renewed energy for our profession ; I did not realise how many people start to lose this energy over time. So, even for this, I am so grateful for the academy.
I am also enjoying the peaceful environment. My room desk overlooks the hills and beautiful gardens of MontFleur. As well as overlooks Stellenbosch in the distance. Birdsong throughout the day, and night owls hooting at night. So when I work at my desk, the calm outside helps me to focus on my work. I have so enjoyed this 'me' time, with very little to distract me (except pool and darts after dinner - which is OK because I'm brain dead by then).
Thats my thoughts for Monday!

Lisa Kane questions

What is it about libr* that I find exciting?
The human interaction with students.
How students develop from undergraduate students to PhD students.


What angers me about librarianship?
The unwillingness of students to trade in Google for academic library databases.

What would I like to change in libr*?
The high prces publishers ask for their journal databases.

Better late than never

Hi everyone

As the slogan for the previous Arrive Alive campaign blurted: Better late than never. My computer has finally been sorted so I can start to blog.

It's wonderful to meet everyone at the Academy (including the dead snake on my morning walk, the farmer who chased me off his vineyard, and the spider who snuck up on my bedroom blind).

See you all soon at the pooltable, dartboard or dining room table.

SA Articles of interest

Articles by Andrew Kaniki:
Pavlinka

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

an overview

I am so happy to be on... I have been struggling to access the blog....where do I start???It was an amazing interesting and thought provoking week. the speakers were so Great they all know their subjet so well and they are very motivated and motivating. Prof Habib wow, He really made me think...I remember the launch of the LIASA, Thabo Mbeki was invited he was our deputy president at the time. He also challeged us (librarians) to speak in one voice.
Prof. Cronje, Reese and Cloete really they made me realize that it is no longer business as usual!!!What I know for sure I am going to work SMARTER with my researchers and undergraduates. I am still struggling to download or view the beautiful photo that my fellow participants are sharing, and thak you guys your are a awesome group.

More Lisa Kane!

It has been great reading the responses to Lisa Kane's questions, so I would like to add a few more:
Q - What is it about libr* that I find exciting?
A - The look of relief or "Wow" moment on a student's face when I've helped them find what they need. To me this is one of the most satisfying aspects of being a subject librarian. Undergrad students who feel confident about their own (re)search, become enthusiastic capable post-grads.
Q - What angers me about libr*?
A - Librarians who don't care! Especially those with bad attitudes to their users, and are unhelpful and disinterested.

Enough of that! I am wondering how others have fared with the cd given to us on Saturday. There is so much on the cd that it has been quite difficult chosing what to write about. However, I do think that we could have had a more constructive session on Saturday....I kept thinking that we would get to the exercises but they never materialised, and I will be putting this in my post-it feedback tomorrow.
I really enjoyed my outing to the Waterfront today and feel much energised by the experience. It was good to have a complete change of environment, and enjoy the "buzz" of the city. I am now ready to tackle the next phase of our Academy experience!!

Lisa's Questions continued...

What is it about lib... that I find exciting? Being part of the RLC Academy!
What is my earliest enjoyable memory related to lib...? Being read to as a child.
What puzzles me about lib...? The fact that some academics don't use the library.
What angers me about lib...? The high cost of books, journals, databases.
I wish... that costs could be lower or our budgets could be larger.
What comes to mind visually? Our beautiful new Rhodes Library.
Libraries should be dynamic, exciting places, staffed by dynamic, exciting people!

The week that was and the week to come

What a week!!! laughter,tiredness, concentration networking and very very interesting presentations with interesting passionate people, from whom I gained a lot of knowledge and experience. The enviroment and the week was very special and a lot to think about. I am so glad there is another few days left where I can learn and network and grow as a person and professional. The weekend was great and relaxing.
I am ready for another special week in my life.

Gerda

Lisa Kane

What is it about libraries that I find exciting?

The fact that not one day is the same. Every client that comes and sit in front of you has different needs and questions and is a person in its own and needs to be treated like that. The interaction with clients, the new techonolgies and dynamicness of a library.


What is my earliest joyfull experience that was a enjoyable memory?

My first practical experience at the Univeristy of Pretoria Library. I remember that is was in the Natural and Engineering Science faculty library. I had to help a student to find information in the printed Engineering Index. Yes no Science Direct or IEEE !!!!! It was so pleasant and enjoyable when I did find relevant and good references for the student!!!! I felt very good about myself and my service.


What puzzles me about libraries.

That people find libraries are boaring and they do not need libraries???


What angres me about libraries?

The fact that librarians are seen as people who sit behind desks and stamp books the whole time. we are dynamic and have to work very hard to keep up with all the new technologies and developments and need much more recognition for what we are doing and accomplish.

Gerda 18 April







Catching my breath...

Another heavenly day at Mont Fleur. With most of the group away, I've been able to use this time for reflection. What a fascinating week. I've learnt so much and been exposed to so many interesting speakers and new ideas. Here are a few of the most valuable lessons that I have learned:
- the importance of getting to know your researchers(users)(by attending lectures and colloquims, being on their e-mail lists etc)
- the need to create an environment that fosters two way communication between the user and the librarian
- the need to actively market library services so that researchers and users are aware of what we as librarians can do for them
- the need to network with colleagues to learn more about how we can improve the services that we offer
- the need to change the attitude of librarians so that they no longer see themselves simply as the custodians of the collections but as vital links who provide access to information in the broadest sense of the term. Librarians need to proactively recreate themselves and the services that they offer so that they can meet the needs of the user before the user realizes that s/he has a need!!
I agree with Wynand - isn't it exciting to be a librarian?

On Lisa Kane ...

What is it about libr* that I find exciting?
The constant change! Challenging me to grow, experience, learn. It scares me, I keep looking into myself to find the courage and through mastering a new fear I grow stronger, more self confidant , experimenting my new boundaries.
What is my earliest joyful/enjoyable memory related to libr*
The vast knowledge that was on those shelves, just waiting for me to read! I was always reading, even after "lights out" I used a flashlight to read, under my bedcovers.
What puzzles me about libr*?
Beaurocracy, even coated with modern management fairydust like "open door policies", is still very much alive in our libraries ...
Discrimination/ reverse discrimination. Not applying the "best" person in the available position but rather clinging to political correct placements, only to spend thousands for training and personnel time . Then send out reapplications when the person move onto better positions!
What angers me about libr* and wish could be different?"
The system promoting individuality! You get bonuses/promotions by doing the things that excells. Every person trying to "out do" their colleagues, to be seen by management. Instead of working together, bringing together all those talents towards a meaningful result.

We all have different talents, by working together, without the almost constant fear of performing for to be noticed, more wonderful things could be done.

Copper engraving at the conference room

May be we can go back to our different libraries with this in mind and adapt it a little:
"May the peace and beauty of Mont Fleur stimulate dialogue, learning and fellowship and inspire courage, hope and vision for our future. A live well lived is a gift to the future."

Role of the library (Interesting article on this blog)

Article's title: One Report, Two Findings: Library Roles Changing, Open Access Not Compelling

http://scholarlykitchen.sspnet.org/

Something to think about

T. S. Eliot
The Rock
Where is the Life we have lost in living?
Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge?
Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?

May you all enjoy tomorrow's outing to the Waterfront

Saturday, April 17, 2010

The place of the Library

'Libraries are the heart of the university' - Dr. Gansen Pillay, 16 April 2010.

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This week

The presentations really gave me a wider perspective on research issues.
Thank you for this.

My responses to Lisa Kane's Questions

What is it about libr* that I find exciting
Especially the academic library. There are always changes and new developments

What is my earliest joyful memory related to the library
I remember the day I could page through the old Brandwag journals in the Little used section of our library
What puzzles me about libraries
How they survive for ages
What angers me
When people say they do not need libraries
What I wish could be different
I wish the public libraries could be more sufficient as in the past
What I wish everybody could hear about libr*
The librarians are very friendly and they are the people who can help you. Just go there

My responses to Lisa Kane's questions

What is it about libr* that I find exciting?
Helping users and researchers to get what they need as quickly as possible.

What is my earliest joyful/enjoyable memory related to libr*?
taking books out of the pre-fab library that we helped to build at my junior school.

What puzzles me about libr*?
Why don't people recognise the importance and value of libraries and being able to read?

What angers me about libr*?
The fact that library management doesn't seem to recognise the value of the services offered by the ILL department - the head of the department is seen as a "glorified" clerk.

What I wish could be different.
It would be wonderful if society could realise the value of a library - if public and school libraries could receive the financial support that they need to be able to make a differnce.

What I wish everyone could hear about libraries.
I wish eveyone could experience the new library at Rhodes particularly when it is buzzing with students. Libraries and librarians are there to help you !!
Sue

The week that was ...

Saturday (17 April):

I am tired but relieved. Had my research report interview with Karin and Colin, and once again they gave me some valuable guidance and advice. Thanks Karin and Colin!

Prof Robert Shell is one of a kind. Technology sure had a huge impact on the way indexing can be done. Prof Shell shared lots of interesting snippets with us.

This week has been extremely informative and valuable for me ... I have learnt so much, and my horizons have been broadened tremendously ...

Input from floor re: If you have to go back to your university, what is it what you want to change, and how will you change it?

- Business management skills need to be developed
- More exposure e.g. conference attendance
- Think beyond consortia
- Be part of the department
- Continued contextual training should take place
- Librarians should further their studies, write articles
- Needs analysis should be conducted from time to time
- Re-structure qualified staff in the library
- Promote digitization, open access
- BE a professional
- Gain knowledge of the publishing industry
- Create a database of experts in the field according to disciplines
- More cooperation between librarians
- Open up minds back at home

Some feedback from Colin & Karin:
- We should not wait for permission from management to do something
- "Lead, follow or get out of the way" (Colin)
- "Librarians are the intellectual equals of researchers" (Colin)
- Develop capacity, support and help develop promising researchers - they need special support because of inequalities

Note to myself: when doing a thesis create it on a DVD, and build in interactivity.

Ina

If I was the Queen ...

I would knight librarians for aren’t we the keepers and protectors of the truth. Are we not on an endless errand to find the holiest of grails (knowledge), bringing it into the open for the world to see (cataloguing, exposing, digitising ...)? Are we not always out there looking to save ‘maidens in distress’ (researchers and students) in a world filled with dragons (irrelevant and incorrect information) whose sole aim is to ensnare and devour the feeble minded? We are knights in shining libraries sworn to do the bidding of those that we serve. We are the 'illuminators' of the true path to wisdom.

Sir Librarian – what a wonderful world this can be! I am proud to be a librarian! I am proud to part of a small group of chosen people who though battle-scarred keeps on fighting the good fight for an informed world.

My responses to Lisa Kane's questions

What is it about libr* that I find exciting?
EVERYTHING! More especially that though performing a thankless role, we are indirectly feeding into the economic development as enablers in supporting research and as students are graduating - thereby contributing to changed lives.

What is my earliest joyful/enjoyable memory related to libr*?
Being locked up inside a library (Kempton Park public library) at a very early age. Feeling secure and happy and not being concerned about being locked inside. Knowledge does conquer fear!

What puzzles me about libr*?
Why do we always seem to have to fight for a reason for existence. This is the information age after all.

What angers me about libr*?
A fairly universal perception that we are basically redundant! Also what I perceive to be a level of incompetence by certain national library structures. I don't see the levels of leadership expected!

I wish everyone could hear about the libr*:
That you need us more than we need you! A bit flippant and overly stated but we as librarians must also assert our role and ensure that our services are centrally placed and embedded within the research processes.

Friday, April 16, 2010

Ms Lisa Kane

What is it about libr* that I find exciting?
The detective work; the materials that I work with (includes original manuscripts); researchers (I especially learn from their topics of research; the satisfaction from researchers when they discover new things (includes tools that empower them in their research).

What is my earliest joyful/enjoyable memory related to libr*?
Probably not my earliest, but for me some of the most memorable: The exhibition of original composer manuscripts in the British Library (included Haendel's Messiah); viewing and 'handling' of Mozart manuscript at Christies in London prior to an auction; working with earlier printed editions for Haendel House in London prior to its opening.

What puzzles me about libr*?
Librarians feeding the misconception of libr*.

What angers me about libr*?
Sticky photocopiers and printers, and people that scratch in books (especially when it is in ink)!

"I wish attitudes and priorities (also for funding) towards libraries could be different."

I wish everyone could hear about the libr*: Those somehow involved in research and depending on the libr* without knowing it - wake up and smell the coffee!

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RLC - research landscape claim

Been thinking... the scope of research being conducted in South Africa is quite amazing. Feel kind of proud. Never quite realised that such amazing research was being conducted on our doorstep. Also feel kind of sad that this whole amazing research landscape seems sort of'artificial and manipulated when represented by statistics (or is it just me?).
How cool is it that one researcher is beaming about MEERKAT and another one is moaning about the lack of cellphone reception in Fraserburg! - reflect that statistically....
Anyhow, for us as librarians, if this experience and exposure do not drive us to stake our claim (and we do have one) in this landscape of research, I don't know what will.
Mimi

Day 5: Library Academy

The one thing I find exciting about being in a library, or being a librarian, is the mining for information. It's like going on an adventure for me!

This has truly been an awsome experience for us all. What resonates with me from all the presentations we've had this week is that the time for a paradigm shift has arrived amongst us librarians. Business unusual from here on!

T

Almost half-way up the mountain ...

Friday (16 April 2010):

Never realised it as clearly as today - we are actually in a very competitive money-making business ...

Dr Gansen Pillay (Vice-president: Research and Innovation Support and Advancement, NRF) gave a most inspirational/motivational talk. As with academic researchers, librarians also need to conduct research to inform what they do, and stay abreast of new technologies and support services. We definitely have an impact on the bigger picture. Take decisions that are best for our country, and not only for an individual university. I also want to make a difference! Once I go back I want to inspire others to also do research, and further their studies. Remember to put one foot in front of the other ...

Susan Veldsman (Director: Scholarly Publishing Unit, ASSAf) introduced us to global and developing world publishing. Currently 7 open access journals (41 issues, 735 articles) are hosted on SciELO. These journals need to adhere to specific criteria: need to be DoE accredited, ISI or IBSS rated. My suggestion: Feminist Africa. When asked afterwards she told me that they encourage universities to host journals e.g. on OJS, so that they at least become visible and articles are cited.

Prof Johann Mouton (US, CREST) explained bibliometrics, the impact factor and university rankings. Need to have discussions with him re how SUNscholar, CREST and the SU Research Office can work together ...

Prof Adam Habib (UJ, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Teaching) shared his passion for helping students without the necessary resources with us. He is also a huge supporter of open access! In his words: "We should become part of the global access movement!" We must become innovative in finding solutions for local problems, and start functioning as systems: "Act as a system, or fail as an institution".
My personal experience: Have been trying very hard to establish a CoP in the form of IRSpace/IRTalk in SA, presented lots of workshops on IR's. Only one or two "share" - others keep info to themselves ... Competitiveness?

Group work: If you have to go back to your university, what is it what you want to change, and how will you change it?

Ina

Some photos from our "sundowners on the mountain":

Recommended book & Journal ranking websites

Prof. Johann Mouton recommended the book "Bibliometrics and citation analysis: from the Science Citation Index to sybermetrics".

L. Meho (h-index; citation analysis; ISI-Scholar-Scopus article) links to articles on Google Scholar (most are full-text)

I also want to recommend the Elsevier's SJR SCimago Journal and Country Rank if you want to find ranking of journals and countries. I also found last year about H-index (how to measure your scientific productivity)

I also use these websites from Thomson Reuters:

Just look all the additional links available under "Data and Ranking". It could be useful fo your work.

Pavlinka

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I particularly liked Lisa Kane telling us "when you can't think it , just write", as I am at a sticky point in my research project. It helps to see that other researchers experience the same kind of problems. While my mother also read to me as a child, for some reason the memory that was prompted by Lisa's question was the following: sitting in the childrens' section of my small town library and feeling excited and overwhelmed by all the books surrounding me, and just diving into the nearest one. I could not yet read, but I knew there was a story behind all the wonderful pictures! Anyway, the thing about Lisa's questions was that they got me thinking about my own library experiences, from the perspective of my work as well as that of myself as a library user.
Time's up!

Lisa's Questions...

I loved Lisa's presentation and the questions she posed have got me thinking. One of my earliest memories is of my mother reading to me at bedtime - this ritual instilled in me my love of books and reading. Very simply put, I became a librarian because I love books - my day is not complete unless I can start and finish it reading whatever book is currently at my bedside. No technology can replace a parent reading to a child or a good book at bedtime, so I don't buy into Prof.Cronje's paperless society!

The drumming was great! Thanks Karin for the idea!

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Librarians Ahoy!


Found on a noticeboard...

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Some nuggets from the academy ...

Bill Gates said the Internet is a tidal wave that will wash over and drown those who do not learn to swim. Eugene Cloete said that librarians are swimming instructors...

Wisdom is not a commodity, but information is.

There should be a mindshift in librarians away from their collections towards their clients and their connections. (Johannes Cronje). I have definitely always been more interested in my clients than in my collections...

Johannes also introduced us to the idea of the pecka-kutcha (Google it, it's an interesting idea) and to mydropbox.com, which you can use to share large files.

Yesterday we listened to Jasper Reese (!) but today Lisa Kane and Gaelle Ramon confirmed that researchers do indeed need libraries and librarians.

At last, I've managed to get onto the blog!! I am so priviledged to be a part of this amazing programme. I have learnt so much from the lectures, made some wonderful new friends and am really enjoying the magical surroundings. The food is fantastic... Thanks to all those back at Rhodes who are keeping the library running with the 7 of us away. We are looking forward to sharing all that we have learnt on our return.
Sue

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A bird's-eye view on research 4

Day 4 (Thursday 15 April):

Today focused more on postgraduate studies, funding and support services. We started the day by giving feedback on our group discussions from yesterday afternoon, followed by the following talks:

1. Ms Lisa Kane (UCT Honorary Research Associate & PhD student, University of Lancaster)
She didn't give up on doing her PhD regardless of struggling to find someone to be her supervisor. Time-management is important. Set aside time for your family, for work, for research and stick to it. Often a librarian can offer a shoulder to cry on, and the library can become a sanctuary. Librarians should show interest in research conducted by students, and be flexible. There is a huge need for more digitised material (e.g. maps). She has never made use of a librarian, but would have liked to have one ...

2. Dr Saurabh Sinha (UP, Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering)
Gave us some valuable information re the PhD research journey. Research groups need meeting places to solve problems themselves; access to e-libraries; state of the art equipment (attracks top researchers). You have to "own" your research topic. During the proposal phase libraries need to access Scopus/ ISI Web of Knowledge. Students submit up to two papers for journals, and one for an international conference.

3. Prof Deborah Posel (UCT, The Institute for the Humanities in Africa)
Innovative research becomes more inter-disciplinary. Create new connections, network. Inspire postgraduate students by pulling them into inter-disciplinary communities.

4. Dr Gaelle Ramon (UCT, Research Office)
Also didn't give up on her research, regardless of not being able to speak English in the early days. Supervisor plays a very important role. The library can play a role on giving input re where to publish, etc.

5. Dr Andrew Kaniki (NRF)
Lots of funding available for researchers. We can help making them aware of it. Major challenge for researchers is access to knowledge.

About the program so far: Very well structured, with sufficient breaks in between. Thanks Pat!

About my fellow colleagues attending the academy: This is a great bunch of people. I have learnt so much from them and from the questions they asked, as well as the talks we engaged in on professional level and over lunch/dinner during the past days.

To summarise/my personal opinion:
- We can learn from researchers, and they can learn from us. Communication is very important!
- In order to conduct our research, librarians can do with some study leave as well :)
- Re searching for theses & dissertations - try out IRSpace, along with Current & Completed Research, Nexus
- Subject librarians should - and in most cases I believe they do - also follow an inter-disciplinary approach.
- Maybe librarians will be able to better identify with the research process by also enrolling for their Masters/PhD's? A tough one ...
- A state-of-the-art library can also attrack researchers worldwide?
- A question: How can we become a world class and internationally competitive university and compete with researchers in the USA, who have access to a vast amount of databases/e-journals?
- Inter-disciplinary communities can spontaneously evolve within the Research Commons ... different postgraduates from different disciplines informally engaging in social areas of Research Commons.

Highlights: Drumming session, and potjiekos-dinner with Julene, Danie, Saurabh, Wynand, Pieter (I think Saurabh now have a completely different perspective of librarians :))



Ina

Things that kept you going....

Lisa Kane, thanks a lot for this morning presentation. It was inspirational and timely. We are here at the academy to learn how to do research better, how to help researcher with their research, and so on. We are also learning more and more each day about each other on personal and professional level.
I want to use this blog post to place the questions, which we have been asked by Lisa (either place a comment on this post or just create a new blog post):
1. What it is about lib... that I found more exiting?
A: I feel privileged to be part of where information is found, knowledge is acquired and I helped along the way.
2. What is my earliest joyful/enjoyable memory related to lib....?
A: Finding my first books to read. I never thought I would become a librarian
3. What puzzles me about lib.....?
A: Why do librarians are afraid (take slow steps) of change? What are we afraid of?
4. What angers me about lib.....?
A: The lack of recognition; Outdated assumptions of what we should do or not; Stereotypes of how we should look, dress, behave and provide services.....
5. I wish lib...... could be different
A: Traditional library services meet virtual/online library services = Comprehensive services???
6. When I say library/librarian, what comes to mind?
A: The cleverest person in the world (ha-ha); Bookish? With glasses? Conservative clothing... Not my way, definitely..
7. Summarise in one sentence ..... What you wish everyone could hear about library/librarians?
A: My message is: Slowly but surely we adapt to the changing "social" world and the demand for information and services. We are no longer restricted to the " library physical walls", but we are "out there". We are part of the world creation of knowledge and information. I'm proud to be a cutting-edge LIBRARIAN.
Pavlinka

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I have struggled to get on the blog, but have at last managed, so here goes....Thanks to everyone for all the lovely photos posted on the blog...they are beautiful! I has been interesting reading your posts and finding out what the thoughts are on the programme. Coming from the subject librarian's perspective, I am looking out for the speakers' attitudes to interaction between academic departments and the librarians/library, and so far have been gratified to note that some academics do see the need for this! As for today, I am looking forward to hearing the feedback on the impacts and questions which the programme has generated. Running out of time, can't miss breakfast!

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

RLC Librarians on the move

RLC Librarians on the move. Well, with the previous days and today, Day 3, I got really inspired because there are so many ideas that can be borrowed, adapted to my clients needs, and new ideas that could be developed. I start to think more broader and about possibilities. As Johannes Cronje said: mindshift from the collection to the user(very true). Cheryl Walker said that she was observing all the time, and something about being part of a larger piece. As a librarian we are also observing all the time, which I think is part of librarian's nature. Our fine balanced part in the larger piece is to line up with the visions of the library as well as with the visions of the faculty, and to support (and more) the clients. The idea of giving the lecturer, researcher and post-grads coffee is not a bad idea. It is a soft issue for building better relations, and works very good at this stage for me.

What do they have in common...


So, what DO they have in common, except being librarians?

Yet another magnificent day with excellent food, inspiring lectures and good company! A passion for research was quite (and this is euphemistically spoken) evident in especially the first two sessions this morning (those by Professors Cheryl Walker and Leslie Swartz) - as Prof. Walker stated: '[Research is] who I am, who I think of myself to be [...]'. This is also the way I feel about librarianship. As they say: home is where the heart is - for me, this is the library!

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Day 3: Library Academy

Kollegas

I enjoyed today's speakers and the activities. I can't believe just how exhausted I am, having trouble keeping my eyes open!

Wish I had the energy to say more.

Good night
T

Day 3

Finally managed to get onto the blog!. Woke up to a chilly morning. Presenters today focused on resaerch practices in their fields - Psychology, sociology, law. Then the challenges presented by Prof Cronje and Prof Rees are food for thought. Have to say that I am grateful for the rare free hour before dinner today, just to catch up with myself and get my second wind.
Feeling rather apprehensive about the project write up because its going slower than I had hoped. But the weekend is ahead, and will make up time there.
Spontaneous moments with fellow colleagues has led to darts and pool matches, and volleyball. This has been great. Also amazing to notice that we chat about readings and acaemt over breakfast. So, slowly it seems we are changing out outlook on things.
Alaso have to add, that I have never been this pampered ; to come to our room to find either the elctric balnket switched on, or the fan - depending on weather. Never mind the most devine food, and ways to present our food - the picnic besde the waterlillied pond was absolute bliss. Whjo says you can't work hard and play hard at the same time.

Photos

Thank you for all the pretty photos.

Trigger happy









Yesterday's walk in the mountain was beautiful, just sharing some photographs as well...





























"I am a LIBRARIAN ..."

What an experience! Wonderful speakers, all experts in their disiplines. Thought provoking ideas leaving us brimming with energy. (Perhaps most of said energy come from the wonderful cuisine) We feel pampered in luxury and beautiful nature. More so since our froggie friend bring the sounds of nature to our sleepy ears at night ...

Special development in some of our colleagues is also noted. Julene, congratulations in your mastering of the art of pool playing. May we discover many more talents in the next few days!

A bird's-eye view on research 3

Today was our third day at the academy (Wednesday 14 April).

The first part of the morning dealt with different domains, different epistemologies.
Prof Cheryl Walker (SU, Sociology)(observer)
Prof Leslie Swartz (SU, Psychology)(research group get together in his kitchen)
Prof Jacques du Plessis (SU, Law)

The second part of the morning addressed the library as a place.
Prof Johannes Cronje (CPUT, Education, Innovation and Technology)(Twitter, paperless office, loves librarians))
Prof Jasper Reese (UWC, Biotechnology)(doesn't need the library)

We ended the formal program with a discussion on the impact of the past few days on our outlook of research, as well as questions we have.

What I have learned/my opinion: 1. There is a definite need for an IR, open access and for a place to host data sets at Stellenbosch University. 2. Researchers work under tremendous pressure, with a lot of things to attend to simultaneously. 3. When they can't find the information they are looking for, they get very upset. They want it preferrably the same day. 4. The different approach by different disciplines towards research - law students are discouraged to use Google, and they would rather make use of books/journals/blogs. 5. Books from Special Collections play an important role in many disciplines. 6. Librarians need tools such as Kindl/iPad. It is kind of embarassing to work in a library environment, offering access to e-books, but none of us have access to an e-book reader. 7. Social networking tools form an integral part of research conducted by some researchers. 8. Some researchers regard the library as redundant, and believe they can conduct research without the library. 9. A coffee machine in the Research Commons is a must. Postgraduate students are looking for a "home" away from "home". They tend to feel homeless after completing their honours. 10. Re broken links to research articles - fortunately the library can come to the rescue here as well by hosting research on institutional repositories. Each item submitted will receive a persistent link, never to be broken like with an ordinary web page. 11. Researchers do not like to receive e-mails containing bulks of information/references. 12. Re preservation of digital file formats: lots of initiatives going on, and we are currently researching this specific topic in order to establish a digital preservation policy for the University of Stellenbosch (also the theme of my research article for the Carnegie Academy).

Highlights (except for the excellent speakers, venue and food): volley ball, picnic, walk with Mimi every morning, dinner in bed by the very considerate, caring, professional and competent staff at Mont Fleur (thanks Michael!).






Some more photos:

What a priviledge

I woke up this morning and looked out of my window and the scenere was just amazing. At that moment I thought how priviledged can one be. we have beautifull scenery surrounding us, we are getting wonderfull food and we are growing and developing and have the opportunity to network, all in one!!!!! I enjoy every speaker. They are all individuals that have so much experience in their field and about research. Each one is different but I learned somthing from each one of them. I am looking forward to today and thank God for this wonderfull opportunity that I have to be able to do and experience all this, for a whole two weeks. Have a wonderfull day!!!

Gerda

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

A bird's-eye view on research 2

This blog has started to fulfil more than one need of mine. Except for the fact that we are required to give our impressions on this academy, I find it a very useful tool to reflect on my own learning that has taken place while listening to the speakers each day, and I have also posted the link to my colleagues back at the office to keep them updated, at the same time giving feedback while all is still fresh in my mind. It is also nice to read the blog entries of my fellow academy attendees.

More about Tuesday 13 April:
Prof Scarlett Cornelissen (SU, Political Science) gave an excellently, spot-on and well prepared talk on the research process within political science, with the focus on her area of interest: international relations. She mentioned that it took some thinking on how she goes about. I guess after a while all just comes naturally!

Prof Alex Duffy (UP Museums) took us on a trip of the various museums (his area of specialization: Anton van Wouw sculptures). He once again confirmed the vulnerability of microfiches - it deteriorates and is becoming very difficult to conduct research from it. Soon the information it contains will be lost, if we do not soon start digitizing our microfiches. Even paper lasts longer than microfiches!

I use to think that economics is boring, but Prof Stan du Plessis (SU, Economics and Business Science) made it come to live. He is very excited about the possibility of the library playing a role in the preservation and curation of digital data sets, since it is not managed in a proper way currently. Will make an appointment when I get back at the office once again, as with Prof Eugene Cloete :) In his words: "It would be a tremendous service". Economics also rely heavily on working papers.

Prof Martin Villet (Rhodes, Zoology & Entomology) gave an entertaining talk on insects, the cases they help to solve etc. I love watching CSI by the way, and he took us behind the scenes with his talk ...

Ms Yaliwe Clarke (UCT, African Gender Institute) talked about her research on studies related to women in Africa. They also publish a journal: Feminist Africa. I couldn't help to wonder why they do not host their journal on ScIELO (ASSAf) - especially since it is an Open Access journal - and I promised to put her in contact with Susan Veldsman.

Prof Donald Foster (Psychology, UCT) really put us on the spot, and nobody could avoid his philosophical questions. My question to him: Can we really still say that librarians are the sole custodians of information in this digital day and age where everyone has access to lots of info on the web, in a time where anybody can just publish anything they want to?

In conclusion/my opinion .... 1. I have learned that research has become far more interdisciplinary over the years. Researchers draw from expertise in other areas of research and there is more collaboration. 2. This academy has given/is giving me the opportunity to get to know some of our researchers at SU, thereby creating and open the doors for working with them and establish relationships. 3. Researchers confirmed that they are frustrated if the library does not subscribe to core journal titles, fundamental for research by them and their students. Fortunately ILL is an option. 4. We should try to attend more open lectures/presentations on campus, get familiar with our researchers and the work they do. 5. The library/librarian plays a very important role in the "production chain" (Prof Stan du Plessis). 6. So far the researchers seems to be very much in favour of their research being open for access by all (Prof Eugene Cloete, Ms Yaliwe Clarke, Prof Stan du Plessis). 7. Reference was made to using Wikipedia and Google by more than one researcher.

Below some of the photos from our mountain walk (one of the many highlights!), the food, the academy:


Mont Fleur Day 2




I can just echo previous bloggings. Day 2, especially the 1st speaker Prof Scarlett Cornelissen's session about research in Political Science was very useful to me because it's my subject. From all the other speakers I could learn about the way they conducted research, and got insight about other disciplines. I also learnt more than just the content of the presentation in a certain field. The way the speakers presented themselves varied, and that in itself was also interesting. In all the presentations yesterday and today, there were something to stimulate my thoughts, and I think that is what the Academy is all about.

I learnt tonight to play pool(always want to do that), enjoyed it a lot, had to work on my eye & hand co-ordination though. The playmates were VERY patient. The view and sunset produced lovely photo's which made the huffing and puffing of the mountain walk definitely worth while. I'm also now getting used to the surroundings and will sleep like a baby and not even my dear friend the frog that sounds like a dripping tap will keep me awake.

Mont Fleur

Well, where does one start!

We've had a splendid few days at Mont Fleur. The Mont Fleur staff are extremely professional and have really made us feel at home here. There could not have been a better place for hosting the Library Academy. One of the first images from my room was the one on the left. We had a better taste of this when Michael, our guide, took us on the trail - almost to the foot of the mountain.

Furthermore, I can second what has been written on this blog so far: fascinating lectures, excellent presenters and a great bunch of people!

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I cannot even begin to think of an original title for this post.
It's the end of day 2 at the Academy and I feel as if we've been at it for a week! Not in a bad sense of course, but the fascinating information (and knowledge I dare say) which have been coming our way over these past two days is a lot to digest.
Talking about digestion, I have to comment on the glorious sustenance and five star service we have been receiving from the staff at Mont Fleur - excellent!
Thanks colleagues for all the links and photo's posted on the blog so far - much appreciated!