There’s something for everyone in the Library and Information profession. From aspiring librarians, to students, to newly qualified staff and experienced professionals, there are all kinds of different roles out there!
In this post, we’ll be looking at the role of a Knowledge Officer, based in a large healthcare community organisation.
What does a Knowledge Officer do?
I provide a library and knowledge service to everyone within the organisation; from nurses, to allied health professionals, to very senior staff! I can search the literature on their behalf, and show them how to search the literature for themselves. I also showed people how to weigh the evidence and critically appraise journal articles, and much more.
I worked with partners in a larger NHS Trust to provide article acquisition and physical library space.
The role was new when I came into post, which meant that I had a fair amount of input into how the role and the wider library service could be shaped. I opted to create a collaborative yet competitive service, and sought to make the most of the resources I had to hand.
One of the best aspects of the role was getting to meet all kinds of different service users! From directors to student nursing assistants, I assisted talented, passionate and dedicated people with many specialisms.
What are some challenges to working in healthcare?
It can get very busy, but I wouldn’t want it any other way! I worked remotely, which meant that it took a little longer for me to get a ‘feel’ of the organisation. This was mitigated by the support of management, who got me to attend a range of virtual meetings with different areas of the organisation. I used to work in a hospital, and during the first year of the pandemic, that was quite a scary time. I felt safe though, being in a hospital day to day might’ve actually been one of the safest, cleanest spaces for me!
What are the rewards of working in healthcare?
Working with passionate, dedicated people with a love of learning. Working in healthcare, whether it’s in the NHS or beyond, has taught me that there are many caring and deeply intelligent people out there! It’s amazing also to meet with various librarians on the networks, to learn from their experiences and practice. There’s a fantastic culture of shared learning and disseminating best practice (which for many librarians is no doubt second nature by now).
What advice can you offer for new and aspiring library and information professionals?
Don’t be afraid to say hello, or speak to fellow librarians! Most people love to talk about themselves and what they do in the profession.
CILIP South West Member Network 