Each month, an ALSC member is profiled and we learn a little about their professional life and a bit about their not-so-serious side. Using just a few questions, we try to keep the profiles fun while highlighting the variety of members in our organization. So, without further ado, welcome to our ALSC profile, ten questions (plus one) with ALSC member, Pat Bashir.
1. What do you do, and how long have you been doing it?
I’m a Children’s Librarian and I have been working with libraries since 2003. Currently I work at the Southeast Branch of the Nashville Public Library in Antioch, TN. My official title is Librarian 2 which essentially means I’m the Children’s Services Supervisor. I joined the Nashville Public Library two years ago as the children’s librarian for the Main Library. I transferred to the Southeast Branch in January where I had the opportunity to help them move to a brand new building. I’m responsible for the training and development of two Library Associates and a page. I’m also the volunteer leader in my branch. In this role, I communicate with the volunteer coordinator and let him know when and where we need volunteers, as well as being the point person for the volunteers. I also ensure that we offer programs for all ages, offer outreach visits and that our patrons get excellent customer service.
2. Why did you join ALSC? Do you belong to any other ALA divisions or roundtables?
I joined ALSC because I believe it helps with my professional development and helps me stay abreast to the latest trends in the library world. I haven’t joined any other division yet but eventually I would like to join REFORMA.
3. Do you have any Winter Holiday traditions?
I celebrate Christmas with family and friends every year. I’m originally from Colombia and I have tried to maintain some of the Colombian traditions in my family. During the holiday season we do something called Novena in which we pray and sing Christmas Carols in front of the Nativity Scene. Most Colombians make a pretty elaborate Nativity but I have a very simple one. We do this starting On December 16th until Christmas Eve when we celebrate with a special dinner and open the presents at midnight.
4. E-books or Print?
I love them both. I specially enjoy reading picture books in print. I read juvenile fiction and young Adult e-books and I also like to listen to a good book on my way to work. I download my audiobooks from Overdrive or I borrow them from the library.
5. How do you keep up with library news?
I subscribe to the ALA newsletter and follow different blogs though a website called Feedspot. I get a daily update on different blogs and electronic journals through this website. I also subscribe to Listservs such as PUBYAC and the Tennessee State Library. I enjoy reading Library Sparks to get ideas for programs and different themes for story times.
6. What’s the best thing about your Library?
The best thing about the Southeast branch library is the great amount of resources and new technology that we have available to our patrons. We have a 24/7 free movie rental kiosk and a 24/7 vending machine that offers books and movies for all the audiences. Also a laptop and iPad check out station.
7. How much time do you spend reading each week?
I listen to a book for 3 hours a week. I also read print or e-books for about another 2 hours per week. Every chance I can find, I read picture books and professional journals as well.
8. Favorite part of being a Children’s Librarian?
My favorite part of being a Children’s Librarian is doing story time and the hugs that I get from the kids after it.
9. What is your favorite type of food?
My favorite type of food is Colombian cuisine of course. I love to eat soups such as “Sancocho”, a very typical chicken soup we make in Colombia with plantains, potatoes, yucca and corn.
10. Favorite age of kids to work with?
I love to work with all ages but my favorite age is toddlers 1-3 year olds. They are so cute and they always have a smile for me. I totally love doing toddler story time.
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Thanks, Pat! What a fun continuation to our monthly profile feature!
Do you know someone who would be a good candidate for our ALSC Monthly Profile? Are YOU brave enough to answer our ten questions? Send your name and email address to alscblog@gmail.com; we’ll see what we can do.