Hello HyperLinked Library Classmates.
My name is Matthew Smith and I am in the final half of my MLIS/SJSU journey. My favorite class in the program so far continues to be INFO 200, Information Communities, mostly for the way it changed my thinking about delivering information services with users in mind. I am excited to think of library services not simply on a transactional basis, but in relationships embedded in community. I am excited that this class continues the thread from INFO 200 and hopefully expands upon it.
My daughter and I after a short hike in May 2025.
I live in Alaska and work as a library technician at our local public library. I am fortunate that it is a well-funded library and I have a lot of opportunities at my work to learn and contribute to its mission. My work is varied and interesting. At the same time, I am discouraged and frustrated by the continued defunding and lack of support for public education and public goods in my state and hope that our libraries can demonstrate their value and encourage a healthy engagement with the public good in all its facets. I have two kids in the local public schools and I feel like their opportunities are shrinking compared to opportunities here even five years ago.
My blog is titled after the Alaska state motto, North to the Future. The motto was created in 1967 to encourage people to come North for opportunity and adventure. I want to be mindful of those that were harmed in the efforts to expand to the farthest reaches of our borders, but I do think there is also something hopeful in creating the future in a beautiful place, particularly when we live in mindful, respectful relationship with each other.
I look forward to getting to know you.