a. I am able to evaluate critically, reflect, and problem-solve individually as well as collaboratively.

 

In my current position in Digital Support Services, I recommended and proposed a workflow for inputting University of Florida Digital Collections (UFDC) links into appropriate OCLC records. Though this was attempted for a short period of time with our local OPAC, it was never attempted in OCLC. Knowing that our global patrons primarily utilize WorldCat for their information needs, I understood the importance of adding UFDC links into the records. So, I collaborated cross-departmentally and with other institutions to create a MACRO that would automate this process. Also, I suggested better branding for the UFDC label link to replace the generic "Click here for full text" to "University of Florida Digital Collections, Full view."  Also, the workflows and training documents I create at the Digital Support Services department are centered around maintaining consistency between these three platforms (UFDC, PRIMO, and WorldCat) in order to increase visibility, digital preservation, and maintenance of UFDC and dLOC. Consequently, I have intimate knowledge of the production logistics within the Digital Support Services department as I am a part of and have created workflows that affect the accessibility of digital content in dLOC and UFDC.  

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Also, I submitted five UFDC collections to Deeply Rooted, this was a multiple step project (consisting of 3,315 items) involving crosswalking from Mets to Dublin core, enhancing metadata, creating spreadsheets, and collaborating with curators and the University of Mississippi.

 

In my previous position at the Latin American and Caribbean Collection (LACC), I was able to collaboratively problem-solve a New Books process. Coming up with this process, of efficiently rotating new books on the New Books shelf and establishing their temporary location in ALEPH, required me to train LACC staff and students. This allowed for a more standardized process of processing New Books; thus, innovating from previous inefficient methods. This process is still being used by LACC staff today. 

b. I demonstrate effective communication skills.

 

In LIS 6445 Seminar in Public Libraries, I had to effectively communicate the importance of citizens funding libraries, especially during periods of budget cuts. I outlined the indispensable role a public library plays in a community; thus, advocating for citizen financial support for the continual progression of library resources and services during budget cuts. I had to be persuasive and factual in order to effectively communicate this end. The advocacy letter is addressed to an editor to be published in a newspaper. Also, in LIS 6603 Basic Information Sources, I learned how to effectively conduct a reference interview for patrons of a library. In order to successfully help patrons with their research needs, clear communication is essential. Therefore, after welcoming patrons, it is essential to ask a series of questions that will give a clearer indication of what the patron really needs and what resource is most suitable. The Final Exam accurately demonstrates this skill especially for questions 3-4 and 6-7. 

 

c. I participate in professional and community engagement activities in the field.

 

I am privileged to be a part of Smathers Libraries' Access Innovations Implementation Working Group, which meets every month to explore the methods and identifies the steps of fully integrating machine-aided
subject indexing into current cataloging and digital collection building workflows.

 

From 2015-2017, I was a part of Smathers Libraries' Linked Data Working Group, which met every month to discuss such topics as developing a pilot project and learning new technologies in support of a Linked Data model. The working group is charged with developing a pilot project for linking the library catalog to contextual resources such as VIVO, Wikipedia, UFDC, and scholarly research. 

 

d. I demonstrate leadership skills and innovation in a diverse and global environment.

In 2012 I was awarded a Spectrum Scholarship, an award of $5,000 given to 50 minority students pursing an MLIS degree. This experience has motivated me to obtain leadership roles in my work environment, that allow me to advocate for diversity. Consequently, from 2014-2016, I was a part of the Smathers Libraries Committee on Diversity, where I help develop training for library staff to increase their understanding of diversity issues. For example, we planned and executed such events as a potluck and training on "Our Diverse Students." 

 

Also, I serve diverse patrons both in my current position as metadata specialist in which I provide bilingual metadata so that our global patrons have equal access to our preeminent multilingual collections. Furthermore, when I worked in LACC, which is often a safe haven for underrepresented groups at the University of Florida. LACC includes materials from a myriad of nations such as Haiti, Cuba, and Brazil. Patrons often vocalize their gratitude in visiting this diverse hub where they can interact with others in their native language, learn about other cultures, and are kept abreast with diversity activities offered around campus.