Update: Closing of U-M Social Work Library

In December 2009, the University of Michigan officially closed the Social Work Library. It was one of the unfortunate specialized library branches that closed across campus due to low demand and budget costs. All graduate students must visit the main libraries to check out and return books. I still use the former library space in the School of Social Work to check my email or type a paper, but it feels very empty because the bookshelves are no longer available there. The hours have also been cut back an hour there. I do not know what will become the new layout for the former library.

Click below for more information about the library closing:

http://www.lib.umich.edu/social-work-library/social-work-library

Ways to Help the People in Haiti

I found this video by Patti Austin on Larry King Live, and I thought the song was appropriate for this unfortunate disaster. Please do everything you can to help the people in Haiti. There are various aid organizations, such as the American Red Cross, where you can donate so that adequate number of supplies can reach there in this time of crisis.



Open your heart. Do the moral thing to help these people.

InsideHigherEd: Technology and Learning

For those who are interested in careers in educational technology, digital librarianship, or technology in social work, InsideHigherEd has a blog series, Technology and Learning, that includes opinions and articles from professionals in the field. It's a great way to keep current with new information and learn from the experts.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is approaching. Are you planning to engage in some type of service or attend events related to his social and economic justice?

Update: What's New for 2010

Happy New Year! It is officially my second semester in graduate school. For those who are new to my blog, I am a current graduate student at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. I am studying social work and information science.

In social work, I cover macro practice topics in administration, policy, organizing, program planning, technology, and evaluation in communities and organizations. I do not address clinical or interpersonal practice issues. I am also not a traditional library science student, but I recognize the information theory and skills are very applicable to a variety of administrative careers. It is a very unique combination!

- Book Reviews: I plan to begin a book review series about careers and topics in macro social work and information science. I have officially completed a semester of graduate school, therefore I feel qualified to educate and share information about the field(s).

- Specializations: I have narrowed down my academic interests to library and information services and macro social work practice (non-profit management and community development). Both fields share similar skills and competencies: helping people with their information needs and providing important programs and services to communities.

- Travel: I hope to engage in more academic-related travel this year. Last semester, I had the opportunity to attend a social work conference in Indiana. It was a great learning experience. Other travel opportunities will include volunteer service.

- Internships: Since I have completed one semester, I am eligible for credit-based internship opportunities. I want to learn and apply my skills in nonprofit organizations.

In sum, I like researching information on macro-level social issues!

Overall, I hope everyone has a good and healthy start this year!