Final Shift
Calls: 1 1/2
I had one call today about trouble accessing databases. The problem seemed to be their computer (as I could access resources logging in under their barcode). Tried a couple of the tricks, but none seem to work (alas..). Referred them to IT on Monday. Also had a question waiting for me when I signed in. I answered it even though they were not there so maybe it will be there waiting for them when they come back!
Got halfway through the Ebsco project and then sent it to Sarah Am pretty sure I was doing it right, but if so there seem to be a lot of problems connecting to the proxy server. I would say more than half that I looked at did not connect properly.
Anyway, I guess this is my final shift. It has been a lot of fun! Although there were never an insane amount of calls, I still feel really grateful to have had this experience, and I think the position was a great intro into the complicated world of virtual reference. I got some great in-depth research questions over the past year, and also became more adept at handling those ready reference. I also think it really helped me realize the different kind of language and ways of answering that need to be used. I also was able to get some experience handling multiple calls at once, which was quite stressful at first.
I also think it was very helpful to work on a number of the different collection and system projects for the rest of the UW team. Although we talk about things like identifying gaps in the collection and constructing subject guides, it has been so helpful to see how that is actually done in a library.
So, all in all - thanks again for a great experience this year CJ. If you guys do ever decide to continue the project best of luck! I also hope you have a great summer (I know it must be hard to think of summer when Manitoba is in the middle of the craziest weather and flooding ever!). Perhaps we will run into one another at a future library conference.
Have a great last shift Sarah!
Me-Linh