Reflections from our Ask-A-Librarian Intern
Maureen “Moe” Weinman’s internship with W&M Libraries’ Research and Instruction department is coming to a close. We couldn’t have asked for a better intern, and were eager to hear her thoughts:
Tell us about your Ask-A-Librarian intern experience.
I had a fantastic experience as W&M’s inaugural Ask-A-Librarian intern! My internship spanned the 2023-2024 academic year with the first semester focusing on online reference chat and the second on instruction through one-on-one virtual research consultations with students. I also created virtual book displays and attended the Virginia Libraries Association (VLA) conference in Chantilly. Additionally, I had the opportunity to visit the W&M campus, tour Swem, and meet the research librarians which was very special as a remote intern.
What did you enjoy most?
While all aspects of the internship provided valuable learning experiences, my favorite was the opportunity to offer one-on-one research consultations with students in the spring. This allowed me to put the skills I’d developed in the fall semester to practical use. I really enjoyed meeting the students and helping them develop their research skills. They always had such interesting assignments!
What surprised you?
I was surprised by how personalized the internship was to my interests and professional goals. At the start of the fall semester, I met with my supervisor to discuss what I was hoping to achieve during my time as the Ask-A-Librarian intern and we created a plan to make it happen.
How did this internship help your career goals?
I sought out the Ask-A-Librarian internship because I was interested in working within academic libraries but didn’t have the experience often required by colleges and universities to do so. Throughout the last academic year, I was able to develop the research and instruction skills needed to succeed as an academic librarian. I’m thankful for the hands-on experience I can add to my resume and bring to future positions.
What else would you share with someone interested in this internship?
The Swem research librarians were fantastic to work with and extremely supportive. I greatly valued the weekly one-on-one meetings I had with my supervisor to ensure the internship was serving me to the fullest. I’m excited for future Ask-A-Librarian interns to have this opportunity! It’s been a pleasure.
We wish Moe the best of luck in her next professional adventure! We will be hiring our 2024-2025 Ask-A-Librarian intern this summer; please visit our guide for more information and visit jobs.wm.edu to apply.
