On a personal level, as someone who sees myself as a life-long learner, I really enjoyed exploring these two modules. I love learning new things, exploring new perspectives, and challenging my thoughts. I enjoy formal education (e.g., lectures, degree programs) but also learn from reading every day and from engaging with my community.<\/p>\n
From a professional perspective, I agree with themes in these modules of needing to keep learning for our patrons\u2019 sake. If part of a librarian\u2019s mission is to provide access to new services, technologies, and learning practices, then librarians need to constantly learn those new services, technologies, and learning practices (Stephens, 2014). The idea of an \u201calways-in-beta librarian\u201d resonated with me; the idea is that we as librarians can constantly be developing new skills and seeking out new opportunities \u2013 whether that be keeping up with the evolution of language or learning a new app (Stephens, 2014; Stephens, 2016). We are never \u201cfinal\u201d versions of ourselves. Maintaining curiosity is a great mindset.<\/p>\n
After reflection, it seems we have a duty to provide these learning opportunities for our patrons. As discussed in one of our lectures for these modules, libraries now are often seen as community spaces and interactive spaces; they are no longer spaces where someone walks in alone, searches for a book solo, and then leaves alone. I welcome the future opportunities to attend library conferences, engaging in webinars, and learning from library staff\/coworkers. I admit that I hadn\u2019t heard of MOOCs before these modules, but they seem engaging and fun\u2014maybe I can participate in one of those in the future as well!<\/p>\n
Finally, I liked the reminder throughout these modules that learning can happen anywhere. Learning doesn\u2019t need to be a formal lecture in order for it to make an impact and be meaningful. It could even be \u201clearning through play\u201d (Lego Foundation, 2016). We should all strive to be open to new opportunities wherever they appear!<\/p>\n
References<\/strong>:<\/p>\n Lego Foundation. (2016).\u00a0What do we Mean by Learning Through Play?<\/a><\/p>\n Stephens, M. (2014).\u00a0YLibrary: \u2026Infinite learning<\/a><\/p>\n