by Gillian Galle
Sometimes you find those special people that affect our students’ lives from multiple access points. What do I mean? Consider the work of the fine folks in the library, in particular, Kim Bailey!
During her 4 year tenure here at Castleton, she and her colleagues have helped students, staff, and faculty alike search for information and learn the answers to their research questions. When I asked her how she viewed her role as an educator, she reflected that:
I think of myself more as a guide. I show students how to find the materials they are in need of so they can be successful with their research on their own.
I support faculty and staff the same way I support students… whether it be for professional development, continued education or personal growth
However, Kim went on to direct my attention to the some of the other employees in the library: the several work study students that work in the library over the course of the academic year. So in addition to receiving lessons in information literacy and discovering the world of knowledge at their fingertips, some of our students are also learning lessons in responsibility and accountability that they can take with them into their future careers!
These days Kim doesn’t get to enjoy as many groups of early morning students eagerly awaiting the opening of the library doors in the morning. Fortunately, despite the pandemic, she still gets to enjoy the school pride espoused by the Castleton students, staff and faculty as well as the sense of community that is one of the hallmarks of our small university with the big heart!
Do you know of an educator that deserves time in our spotlight! Let us know!
