“You Need to Find Your Passion as a Librarian. Libraries Are Not Just About Books” – David Koech (LSA Honouree, Librarian of the Month April 2025)
David Koech is a distinguished librarian. He is a recent honoree of the Librarian Spotlight Africa (LSA). He embodies the essence of librarianship through his unwavering commitment to service. His career reflects a deep understanding. Being a librarian is not just about managing books and resources. It is fundamentally about serving the community and enhancing access to information.
Understanding the Broader Role of Libraries
1. Community Engagement: Libraries are pivotal in fostering community connections. They host events, workshops, and programs that cater to diverse interests, making them vital spaces for social interaction and learning.
2. Technology and Digital Literacy: With the rise of digital resources, librarians are increasingly involved in teaching technology skills. This includes helping patrons navigate online databases, use digital tools, and access e-books and other electronic resources.
3. Youth and Family Services: Many librarians find their passion in working with children and families. This can involve storytelling sessions, educational programs, and activities that promote literacy and learning among young patrons.
4. Research and Information Literacy: For those who enjoy helping others find information, specialising in research services can be fulfilling. This specialization is incredibly rewarding. Specialising in this area is a rewarding experience. This role allows librarians to assist patrons in navigating complex information landscapes and developing critical thinking skills.
5. Collaboration and Networking: Building networks with other professionals and organizations is vital for enhancing library services. Koech actively collaborates with various institutions to share resources and knowledge, which helps in creating a more robust library ecosystem.
Finding Your Passion
Koech encourages librarians to reflect on their interests and strengths. Here are some steps to help you discover your passion:
Self-Reflection: Consider what aspects of librarianship excite you the most. Is it community outreach, technology, or perhaps working with youth? Understanding your interests can guide your career path.
Engage with Patrons: Actively interacting with library users can provide insights into their needs and interests. This engagement can inspire new programs and services that align with both your passions and the community’s needs.
Professional Development: Stay informed about trends in librarianship through workshops, webinars, and conferences. Continuous learning can help you discover new areas of interest and enhance your skills.
Experimentation: Don’t hesitate to try different roles within the library. Volunteering for various projects can help you uncover hidden talents and passions.
Conclusion
David Koech’s message is clear: finding your passion as a librarian is essential for both personal fulfilment and professional success. Libraries are vibrant spaces that offer a multitude of opportunities beyond books. Explore different roles and engage with the community. Embrace lifelong learning. You can carve out a rewarding career. This career will not only benefit you but also enrich the lives of those you serve.
Learn more:
- Staff Profile – Mr. David Kipchirchir KOECH
- Library World Tour-Mario Coffa interviewed David Koech from Kabarak University, Kenya: Open Access, Digital Storytelling, and Technology between Communities and Sustainable Development Goals for Libraries. – 21st Century Information and Libraries Network – INFOLIBNET
- David Koech’s Facebook Page
