Most of us did not grow up sharing our private feelings with the world.  Today we are faced with the challenge of needing to build our brand.  This test can help you understand how socially connected you already are.

Be as web savvy as a librarian

When was the last time you visited a library?
Hint: Wikipedia counts.

Learn how future librarian, Elizabeth Lieutenant, is using Twitter to connect with like-minded students, professors and prospective employers.

Question:
How are you using Social Media to prepare for your career?

Answer:
"I am just beginning my career as a Library and Information Science (LIS) student, and I'm currently in the process of deciding which graduate school to attend. I was fortunate enough to be accepted at all three of the schools I applied to, so I have a big decision ahead of me. Utilizing social media, I have been able to follow each of my prospective schools' Twitter accounts, as well as other school accounts that might provide relevant information (such as campus libraries and archives, career centers, and LIS-related student groups).

Universities share a lot of important information through Twitter, such as what types of activities each school has for LIS students, as well as what kinds of resources are provided to students. I was also able to reach out to a student in one of my prospective programs through Twitter, and she graciously shared her thoughts about the program she was attending, as well as the other programs I have been accepted to.

For more candid information about LIS graduate programs, I would highly recommend @hacklibschool (Hack Library School), which has reviews of many LIS programs written by current or former students. In addition, they are organizing a new project called "Library Student Day in the Life", which should contain insightful information for prospective LIS students."

Question:
Who do you follow on Twitter?

Answer:
"If you have a very limited amount of practical experience, I would recommend following organizations that you hope to work for one day; your "dream employers".

For me, that would be:

• @librarycongress (Library of Congress)
• @SILibraries (Smithsonian Libraries)
• @DCHistory (DC Historical Society).

Reading about what type of work goes on in your dream organizations can help you refine your focus as an LIS student.

I would also recommend following professional organizations that are relevant to your particular interests.

I follow:

• @ALALibrary (American Library Association)
  
• @ala_wo (ALA Washington Office)
• @US_IMLS (Institute of Museum and Library Services)
• @AAMers (American Alliance of Museums).

These organizations often share interesting articles and news with their followers. In addition, they sometimes share job ads, which can give a new LIS student a clear picture of what type of experience is expected of an applicant. Reading job ads, including those on @needalibraryjob (I Need a Library Job), can help new LIS students focus on what LIS classes to take and what kinds of internships to apply to.

I have resisted utilizing social media for a long time, but after reading how valuable Twitter is to LIS professionals, I decided to join. I have already gained valuable insight into the LIS field, from exciting inter-organizational collaborations and technological advancements, to challenges to funding and information accessibility. I have also met some great fellow LIS students."

What do you want to be when you grow up? 

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