Patience

My library has been closed for the last 8 days for an asbestos abatement project. I spent 6 of the last 8 days being a counselor coordinator for 40 teen-aged counselors. While my co-workers prepped for 7-10 days of working-from-home projects, I grabbed a few files and then packed my bags for a week away. (Serendipitous timing)

However today I am “back at work”, meaning that I am working remotely as my colleagues have been doing. I am sorting through my work inbox and drafting the 2015 summer reading program report (while eating a California BLT and iced coffee). Thankfully today is my half day so I only put in 4 hours.

While I was away my 1-year work anniversary came and went.

I am definitely still a new librarian, but now I have 1 year of professional work experience on my resume. (I qualify for civil service positions!) New, but experienced. My collections are doing okay and the adult summer reading program was a success. The building didn’t go ablaze once and the windows are all intact.

I am happy with where I have started, but now where I will go next. If anywhere. Restlessness that I can’t shake.

The most important lesson I have learned in this last year is Patience. I came in ready to work and change the library. Volunteer. Help. Guide. Network. Facilitate. Present. Every day I learn of new paths and opportunities that make me consider more deeply what I am doing. I don’t have to decide anything today, though. I’ve got nothing but time. Time to observe, learn, and grow. Things will change; maybe after the next cup of coffee.