The First Step: John Igo Branch Library

As someone who desired a completely new and different career path, my search led me to pursue a career which I never would have considered: that of a librarian.  Since I lack experience in the library career field, what better way to start this journey by visiting the public library I became aware of not too long ago: The John Igo Branch Library, or Igo Library.  Subjects and materials are learned in the classroom, but experience can only be achieved through interaction and involvement.  Visiting the Igo Library is only the first step in my journey to becoming a librarian.

The Igo Library is part of the San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) system, which has a total of 31 libraries.  If you were to ask why I chose this specific library, the answer is as simple: it is located near our home.  However, location is just a small part of why I believe the Igo Library is an important first step in my journey.  From a beginner's standpoint, the following is what the Igo Library is all about.

Who will I meet there?

When visiting unfamiliar places, I find it helps to get an idea of who I might interact with.  So what type of crowd have I seen at in the Igo Library?  I have observed elderly ladies and gentlemen arrive as soon as the library opens.  There are also college and high school students who take advantage of the quiet atmosphere, and some who weave socializing with studying.  Then there are children with their parents or guardians who frequent the children's section.  If I were to sum it up, visitors encompass all age groups and walks of life, a diverse crowd of sorts.

The layout 

The Igo Library was designed to allow those who enjoy the outdoors to take advantage of its location and outdoor seating.  Inside are computers, several tables and chairs, a quiet area separate from the rest of the library, and a children's section directly to the left of the main entrance.  The children's area covers almost the entire left half of the building when looking in from the front.  If anyone needs assistance or has questions, the service desk is located directly in front of the entrance.

Collections...what's good here?    🤔

The Igo Library has various texts and multimedia such as audio books which are available for use.  There are also digital resources including eBooks and useful online websites.  The vast amount of resources cover all manner of subjects and topics.  In addition to the standard materials, special collections are available which includes Spanish and Korean materials and books in braille.  If the Igo Library does not have a specific book, a request can be made to the other public libraries in the SAPL system.

Services and programs

All services and programs are listed on the events calendar located on the website.  These include anything from writing groups, special interest groups, book clubs, and various age appropriate events, ranging from adults to toddlers (with their parents or guardians).  The focus of each program or service also varies such as fitness, stitching, and movies.  Taking time to look at the events calendar shows how much the library is involved with the community.  Chess club, anyone?   

Blogging in the library

As a first time blogger, and also someone who is cautious about information access, I find that blogging can be helpful so long as the information is credible and does not share anything outside of what the blogger intends.  In other words, being careful of information leaks.  The SAPL does have a library blog, although the majority of it pertains to historical events based on what date it is, or an upcoming event listing.  Occasionally there are is a short blog promoting a book or subject.  The Igo Library itself only has four blog posts, with the last blog dated back in 2016.

Thinking about the first step

The Igo Library is what I consider to be the first step in my new journey.  Of course education is just as important, and goes hand in hand with personal experiences.  However, taking the time to visit and further delve into what the Igo Library has to offer, I am confident I will gain more insight about expectations, challenges, and rewards of being involved in a library.  When asked if I feel blogging is a useful tool for librarians, I would say that yes, it is.  Social media and technology is part of living in today's society.  Information is easily accessible, and maintaining communication has never been easier.  Blogging is another form of communication, one which allows a single thought to be expressed, yet is able to spark enough interest that friends, co-workers, and even strangers alike are able to voice their opinions.  Blogging in the library is just as important when it comes to sending messages across, whether it is upcoming events or a recap of history.  Putting it all together, blogs can allow me to share my experiences as a someone beginning a new career path, and a good place to start is by paying a visit to the library.