In this post, we introduce W&M Libraries’ first Ask-A-Librarian intern. Modeled after Columbia University Libraries’ program, we offer a remote opportunity for current and recently graduated library science students to gain academic librarianship experience.
Name:
Maureen “Moe” Weinman
What does your job entail?
As the Ask-A-Librarian Intern, I’ll be assisting the instruction and research librarians with special projects. I’m currently working on a virtual banned books display for Banned Books Week next month. I’ll also be providing research assistance to library users through Live Chat on the library’s homepage.
What interests you most about your job?
I really enjoy connecting people to information and interacting with a wide variety of library users. You never quite know what the day will bring and that keeps me on my toes!
What do you hope to accomplish during this internship?
Through this internship, I hope to enhance my research and instruction skills, gaining a better understanding of academic resources and databases available to students and faculty to enhance their teaching and learning.
Tell us a little about your work background.
After undergrad, I worked for AmeriCorps at a substance abuse prevention agency, then spent some time in interior design before landing in libraries. I worked at a public library in Wilmington, NC for five years, specializing in youth services before obtaining my MLIS last year. While completing this remote W&M internship, I am also working as a reference librarian at a public library in the Shenandoah Valley.
What attracted you to W&M’s internship?
After working in public libraries for several years, I was interested in gaining experience in academic libraries. When this internship became available, I jumped at the chance to obtain working knowledge at a research university like W&M that recognizes the challenges of breaking into the academic library field without prior experience.
What do you like to do in your free time?
When not working, I love hiking the Shenandoah Valley with my two dogs, scoring interesting finds at thrift/antique shops, trying new restaurants, reading, baking, working on my old house, and cheering on the Buffalo Bills.