HANDS-ON LIBRARY CAREER
EXPLORATION by Denise Purcell
Archives Fellows program, Earlham’s library is once again leading the way.
“I value the variety of experiences we’ve had and that we’ve not just been focused on one department,” says MacNamara, who will gain more library experience before applying to graduate schools and eventually working in a public library. “This program has broadened my understanding of the different positions and how large the field is. It has confirmed my interest in becoming a librarian.” Andrews says the program is comprehensive. “It’s not a simulation,” he says. “We are put in real tasks in almost every department. I feel like this is a beacon for Earlham as far as career development that brings together both the practical and theoretical side. This is a well-integrated program in terms of taking learning into vocation.” Bryant says that one of the reasons for the large number of Earlham graduates pursuing library
careers is the strength of the College’s library instruction program. “Bibliographic instruction was born at Earlham College,” Bryant says. “[Former College Librarian] Evan Farber was a pioneer in the current model of librarians and faculty working together to make sure students have the resources they need to do the research the faculty member wants. Earlham students are exposed so often and so well to our library instruction program.” Farber was Earlham’s College Librarian from 1962-94. The fellowship program is funded by a generous donation from Kenlee Ray, who attended Earlham in 1967 and went on to a distinguished career at the World Bank, where she retired as Senior Information Officer.