Renae Watson
Learner, problem solve, justice-focused.
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Professionally, I'm currently reading "Good Services: How to Design Services That Work" by Lou Downe. For leisure, I'm switching between "Clanlands" by Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish, The Bridgerton Collection by Julia Quinn, and (re-read) "A Discovery of Witches" by Deborah Harkness
Service, leadership, connection.
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I attended an ACRL conference a few months after beginning my first full-time library position and the passion for librarianship that I witnessed (and shared) there was overwhelming. I had never been so excited to be a librarian or truly felt like I had found my people until that point. Similarly, I value the connections I've made serving on an ACRL committee over the past four years and the knowledge I've gained from ACRL listservs, webinars, and more. When I'm unsure where to go professionally, ACRL usually provides a starting point
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My role has changed a few times since I began, from providing tours and supporting collections to serving as a liaison librarian to designing online learning experiences. I have contributed in smaller, but still important, ways, such as ensuring our new online learning objects are accessible or teaching Zotero to School of Social Work students, but I’ve also been able to contribute in larger ways, such as leading the Libraries’ Equity and Social Justice Advisory Group or collaboratively conducting research on first-generation students’ experiences within academic libraries. No matter my role, I've remained user centered and focused on diversity, inclusion, and social justice. In addition to providing resources and expertise in information literacy, I think all academic librarians bring a unique and valuable perspective to their institutions through their broader experience with students, mfaculty, and staff across campus and their dedication to equitable access to information.
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I took a circuitous route to librarianship, so I appreciate how my role varies day to day and draws from different disciplines or areas of expertise. I use everything in my background, from composition/rhetoric to learning design to using various technologies, as well as what I've picked up from working with departments like social work and agriculture. If you're a voracious learner, have an affinity with Sherlock Holmes, and/or had trouble choosing a major in college, academic librarianship may be the right path for you.
Credentials:MSEd, MSLS, MA (she/her)
Title:Online Learning & Student Success Librarian
Workplace:Colorado State University
Location:Fort Collins, CO