My Path to Library Science, continued

After I left Viterbo, it was a few years before I encountered another library-related job. It was with Winnebago Software, a library automation company where I did data entry. You may think doing data entry for 8 hours a day would be boring, but this was actually one of my favorite jobs I've had, I suppose primarily because I didn't have to deal with demanding customers like I did in all my waitressing experiences.

The library automation came in handy because after a stint in Madison working for the state, I moved back to the area and had no luck at all finding a full-time job until a library assistant job opened up at the public library in Prairie du Chien. Because I was one of the few applicants who actually had any kind of library experience, I got the job. With the job came the best boss I've had, Lois Gilbert. She was the one who encouraged me to continue on with my library training so once again I went back to school; UW-Milwaukee would become the 4th college I attended! After sticking with 2 1/2 years of online classes, working full-time, and being a single mom I actually received my master's degree in library & information science. Looking back I feel bad about the times I would have to study and Ashley would have to entertain herself, but I think the lack of attention bothered our dog Max much more than it ever did her....one time when I was finishing up a big paper on the computer in my bedroom, Max came in the room, squatted on my bed, and proceeded to pee all over it! I guess it was his way of getting my attention, and it definitely worked.

I think I worked at the public library for almost 7 years, and it was a great experience. The best part was being a children's librarian: planning storytimes and summer reading programs for the younger children, and collection development and putting on programs for the teenagers. The worst part was some of the special characters you would get, including the guy who would ask for books on labor, and I don't mean as in unions!