Hello all!
My name is Marissa Tavener. I am currently going through a pretty large life change. I lived in Bellingham, WA for about 10 years, but moved a little over a week ago (on Friday the 14th!). I moved to Bellingham at 18 years old for my undergrad and started my career there after graduating in 2020. I worked at the City’s public library for a number of years, first as a page and then a public services clerk. This is where I fell in love with library work and what inspired me to pursue an MLIS in 2024. I also always worked a second part-time job at the Whatcom County government. I worked for a few different departments over the years doing filing and records management work, and even served as the interim law librarian for their public law library. While I was able to manage two part-time jobs, and eventually school, for a while, I ultimately burned out due to the intensity of public service. I recently made the tough decision to leave my jobs to take care of myself. I just moved to beautiful Orcas Island where I now live with my partner! While unpacking is proving to be a little overwhelming, I am excited to focus on school now and see what comes in this new chapter of my life.
I am taking this class for a couple of reasons. For starters, I took INFO 200 with Michael which I really enjoyed. I found his enthusiasm for the library field contagious and appreciated the flexibility the class provided in exploring individual interests. I thought this was exactly the type of class I needed as I focus more on school. Also, as I finish up my MLIS, I am hoping to take electives that allow me to engage with the theoretical aspects of library work I originally fell in love with. I am also taking an intellectual freedom class this semester.
My area of interest has admittedly changed over the years. Currently I am exploring the idea of government documents librarianship. I took a government information sources class last year which I really enjoyed. I loved seeing all of the types of information the government creates and maintains. I particularly liked learning about the organization of information in the courts and legal systems. This was something I was able to engage with as a law librarian too. I also value the open access aspect of public sector information. Though, at its core, I like organizing and knowing where to find information. This is what initially inspired me to apply to be a page, and what makes records management work appealing. At this time, I am not super interested in moving for a job. So, as long as I find a job that allows me to engage with cores aspects of library work I like (and doesn’t overwhelm me with public service), I am open to other opportunities that present themselves.
Looking forward to this semester!
Marissa
Moving truck in line to get on the ferry
My cat, Karel, “helping” me unpack