Library hires new reference librarian

     Over the summer, new Reference Librarian Kristin Cole arrived at the Muskingum University Library. 

     "Kristin's resume on paper went right to the very top because of her experience [and] her educational degrees," said Library Director Sheila Ellenberger.  "There were some extras [like experience using Blackboard] that would really enhance what we do here [and] everybody felt like she was a really good fit [based on] how well [her] qualifications [matched] the job available."

     The experience of which Ellenberger spoke came from Cole's undergraduate education at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles and her graduate work in library science at Kent State University.  However, Cole did not initially consider library science.

     "I used to be a screenwriting major, [but] as I got further into that, I realized how hard it was to break through," said Cole.  "I also studied English and wanted to become a professor."

     Later, Cole found her true calling.

     "My first experience working in a library [was at Loyola Marymount] and that [was] when I started thinking that [it] was something I really wanted to [pursue]," said Cole. 

     After her undergraduate exposure to library work, Cole went to Kent State University and spent some time working at the fashion library. 

     "Initially when I went to library school…I worked in special collections and archives," said Cole.  "But I really wanted to work with students and archives doesn't give you much of a chance to do that. I liked the idea of helping students in different fields and [also] having the teaching experience. It's easier to help [students] if you see them and get to know them."

     This realization led her to look for smaller campuses, which was how she noticed Muskingum. 

     "I saw the posting for the job on a professional site [and] something clicked…I felt it would be a really good fit with what I had done and what I wanted to do, [specifically] instruction in a small campus environment," said Cole.

     This contrasted greatly with her experience of Kent State. 

     "It's really different [at Muskingum]!  But I always thought that Kent was [possibly] too big for me," said Cole.  "I like that I get to know people here [and] that they're not just faces."

     Cole, a Youngstown native, also enjoys living here with her husband and son.

     "It was nice to feel like this was a place where I could…contribute and be part of the community," said Cole.  "It's a nice area."

     Additionally, she noted an effect of her career on her son.

     "It's been a good example for him," said Cole.  "I started college at twenty-two [and so] he's been able to witness getting an education and how important it is."

     Cole still furthers her education now.

     "I'm working on a Master of Education in Instructional Technology now which [is] almost [complete]," said Cole.

     Students also seem comfortable with the new librarian.

     "She's a nice person," said third year student Taylor Arnold.  "She's very personable and [approachable]."