Webinar: Job roles and job descriptions

Webinar: Job roles and job descriptions

Webinar 1: Job roles and job descriptions: demystifying the complex world of library work

In this webinar we examine what it realistically means to work in the library world today; how job descriptions and requirements are changing; and what that could mean for you and your career.

A panel of experts from across library sectors will unpack various job descriptions and provide insight into the opportunities available and skills and mindsets required. Jargon, the differences between sectors and their needs, and the diversity of opportunity will be included in the discussion.

Presenters:

Jane Cowell is a known innovator and speaker on trends in the Public Library industry with over 25 years of experience working in Public Libraries across Australia and is the new incoming President of ALIA. Currently Jane is the CEO of Yarra Plenty Regional Library which serves the communities in the northeast of Melbourne. In her previous role she worked at the State Library of Queensland and delivered significant research projects to support library advocacy efforts such as The Impact of Libraries as Creative Spaces in 2016 and was instrumental in the development of a fully funded ($20 million) early literacy programme for every Queensland public library, First Five Forever. Jane also serves on the International Library Federation Association Public Library Section as Secretary and enjoys this global collaboration to advance Public Libraries across the world. She blogs at Medium and you can follow Jane on Twitter @janecowell8.

Jacqui Lucas is Professional Learning Teacher Librarian for the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA). Before coming to ALIA, Jacqui was a nationally certified lead teacher and certification assessor with a background as a teacher librarian, classroom teacher, teacher mentor, and coach. Jacqui is a long-time champion of reflective practice and continued professional learning and loves supporting others to develop and leverage their professional expertise – especially when it involves school library staff and services!

Nathan Hunkin is the Library Campus Supervisor + Acting Coordinator Library Campus Experience – Griffith University Library. A library leader with over 16 years’ experience in public and academic libraries, Nathan is the current acting Coordinator Library Campus Experience at Griffith University. Now specialising in people management and the transformation of library spaces, Nathan began his career in libraries shelving books at Sunshine Coast Libraries. He has coordinated various large-scale projects including a redesign of the Gold Coast Library and a multi-campus conversion to 24/7 library access. Through the optimisation of physical spaces, service innovation and a solutions-driven approach to management, Nathan has had a discernible impact on student experience. Nathan is an enthusiastic advocate for career readiness, professional development and proactive job seeking. From chairing selection panels to facilitating networking platforms, he possesses a wealth of experience in sector-specific recruitment processes. Whether de-mystifying the interview process or identifying transferable skills and career opportunities, Nathan supports a wide network of library professionals attempting to navigate the complexities of the job market.


This webinar is part of a series of 4 webinars. Further details on the webinar series can be found below:

Webinar Series: The ALIA Career Starter Kit: Preparing and applying for the library job you want

This is an introductory series of webinars, that together provide a thorough guide for job seekers. Aimed at students, new graduates, or those who feel they aren’t progressing in their current job, it will assist participants to find their place in the complex world of libraries, to understand the current and emerging needs of this world, and to position themselves in a competitive and dynamic job market. 

The webinars can be undertaken as standalone learning experiences, but those opting for the full kit will also receive a set of notes, supporting documents, checklists, and tips to guide them through their job seeking and application needs.

The kit will also be available to ALIA members through our member centre.


Contents:

  • 4 x webinars – live across 7 months (see below for summary) or available after the event as recordings. These webinars will involve a set of panel discussions involving library practitioners, educators, and employers, each representing the diversity of sectors and opportunities in Australian libraries.
  • 1 starter kit – with useful supporting materials for each of the webinars including tools for self-evaluation, application writing, and interview technique, along with copious links and helpful tips.

Price:

  Member
Non-member
Single webinar
Free $30
Four webinars + Kit
Free $100

Webinar 1: Job roles and job descriptions: demystifying the complex world of library work

In this webinar we examine what it realistically means to work in the library world today; how job descriptions and requirements are changing; and what that could mean for you and your career.

A panel of experts from across library sectors will unpack various job descriptions and provide insight into the opportunities available and skills and mindsets required. Jargon, the differences between sectors and their needs, and the diversity of opportunity will be included in the discussion.


Date: May 16 in conjunction with National Careers Week.

Webinar 2: Identifying opportunity

Continuing from our first webinar, we begin to identify opportunities, pathways, and consider your own suitability for a job – or that job’s suitability for you.

Included in this session is discussion and practical advice on being prepared and identifying opportunities. This involves a look at transferable skills and leveraging or developing your strengths.

We cover the basics of where to look for jobs, as well as alternatives such as traineeships, moving sectors (or locations), CPD and networking.


Date: July 4

Webinar 3: The written application

Writing job applications is a daunting task. In this webinar we look at the reality of the process from the employers' end – what are they looking for and how is the process managed? We look at how you can address their needs more keenly in your written application utilising widely used techniques such as CAR / STAR, and we consider a variety of approaches that can make you the solution to their problems.


Date: September 5

Webinar 4: The interview

These days interviews can take a variety of forms – for example in person, in a group, or online. They might also involve a task or demonstration on the applicant’s part. In this webinar we look at what to expect, and how to prepare. Practical tips for managing nerves will also be discussed.


Date: November 8


Note: Webinar access will be emailed at least 1 day prior to each event you have registered for.

Tuesday, 16 May 2023
1:00 pm to 2:00 pm AEST
FREE for members
Virtual