Reflecting on a semester of successes

How are we nearly at the end of our fall 2024 semester?

That’s the question I have asked myself multiple times since the calendar flipped to December and the weather turned cold and blustery. The weeks have gone by quickly, and as students begin packing up to head home for winter break, I find myself pondering one thing: What have I done this semester?

It seems like a loaded question because of course I’ve been at my desk, and I’ve been working, but what have I done? The end of the semester and nearly the end of 2024 seems like a good time to reflect on this question and take inventory of accomplishments and things that still need work.

Checking back on my last blog post from the summer, I wrote about a tiered project list that my co-workers and I were in the process of tackling. I’m happy to report we were able to execute those initiatives, which included updating and documenting department policies, procedures, and emergency preparedness.

As it turns out, the emergency prep came in handy just a few days ago as we had a major water leak on our first floor which flowed down into our archives. Our department co-chairs had to act quickly to save thousands of documents as well as communicate with staff and other stakeholders about next steps. It was stressful, especially as our library lacks the presence of a dedicated archivist, but everyone pulled together and did what we could to proceed forward.

Earlier in the semester, I found myself as part of an academic search committee that proved to be useful for me in many ways. While the search itself did not work out, I was able to build relationships with others on campus in a way I wouldn’t have been able to had I not been selected to serve. I’m very grateful for those moments I experienced, as two of the people I worked with will soon be leaving the college for other opportunities.

As our library looks toward 2025, we have several large projects that we will be navigating, including a first-floor building renovation and new ILS implementation. As the one who oversees circulation, there will be a lot of changes to my workflow as well as a whole new set of documentation to update and procedures to create.

Before those changes start to happen, I’m happy for the opportunity to reflect on the good things I have accomplished this semester, even if it seemed like just yesterday the students came filing through our front doors for the first time since May. I wish everyone the best for the remainder of the semester, and if your institution is already done, have a happy winter break!