Category: Profiles

To showcase the interesting and important work being done by libraries across the province, MLA interviews library workers about the unique work they do in order to deliver library services to Manitobans.

This month we talked to Dylan MacDougall, a Reference Librarian at Red River College Polytechnic and also the MLA’s Membership Director. Read Dylan’s profile to find out about his passion for library instruction and his latest movie recommendations!

Can you tell us a bit about your library system or branch?

I work in the library at RRC Polytech. As part of the only Polytechnic institution in Manitoba, the RRC Polytech Library is devoted to supporting students pursuing careers in a wide variety of industries across the province. Our library has two main locations, at the Notre Dame campus and at the Exchange District campus, and we also offer support to students studying out of our regional campuses.

What is a challenge you are currently facing?

I suspect that I speak for many academic librarians in saying that I wish students (and faculty, to an extent) were not only more aware of the various ways we can support them, but also more willing to engage with our services on a deep level. It seems to me that there has been a change in recent years, with students approaching library services in a somewhat transactional way, rather than in a more collaborative or intellectual way. This is a challenge that librarians are facing now, and will continue to face as new technologies like artificial intelligence become more advanced and able to provide easier (but not necessarily more reliable) solutions to students’ research needs. That said, even the toughest challenges are still opportunities for professional growth and learning, and this is no different.

What is something happening at your library that you’re excited about?

One thing I am really excited about at the RRC Polytech Library is our library instruction. I believe that library instruction is incredibly effective when it comes to promoting library services to students while also providing them with a foundation to build upon when it comes to conducting effective academic research. I have had numerous opportunities to go into classrooms and provide library instruction for students, and not only is the experience incredibly rewarding for me in a professional sense, but it is also great to see the way in which it helps students. I think that we offer excellent instruction here at the RRC Polytech Library, and I hope that instructors at the College continue to invite us into their classes.

What are you reading/watching/playing right now?

I’m currently reading a novel, “Children of Dune” by Frank Herbert, as well as a non-fiction book, “The Rape of Nanking” by Iris Chang. I’m not finished either, but so far they have both been excellent. As for what I’m watching, I am a bit of a film obsessive, so I tend to watch several films a week. Some notable recent examples include “Come and See” by Elem Klimov, which I watched on Remembrance Day, and “Anora” by Sean Baker, which I saw in the theater.

We’re always looking for more library workers to feature! Are you doing something interesting at your library that you want to share, or do you know someone in the province that is? Reach out to us at communications@mla.mb.ca.

“Libraries are better when we work together.”
– David Christensen

If you bring up the name David Christensen in Manitoba’s library community, then there is a good chance you will elicit a familiar response and spark a conversation about his role in shaping the public libraries’ landscape in this province. The MLA recently met with David, who retired on July 12, 2024, to discuss some of the highlights from his career at Public Library Services (PLS), the policy and program unit within the Strategic Policy Branch of Manitoba Sport, Culture and Heritage that is responsible for the Public Libraries Act and associated Regulations, after 29 years of service.

With a career in technology predating the public release of the World Wide Web, David, who majored in computer science at Brandon University, has been on the frontline of some major shifts in how society operates. Prior to his career at PLS, David worked for the Manitoba Telephone System (MTS) on provincial database and fiber optic installation projects. His transition to the world of libraries would begin not long after when he took up a position at TKM Software Limited developing software for managing the cataloging and circulation of library materials. It was through this experience that David would gain a fundamental understanding of how information technology and the emergence of the World Wide Web would revolutionize the way that library records are managed and shared.

After TKM, David went on to work for a company in Winnipeg developing software used for emergency dispatch services before returning to his hometown of Brandon to work as a technology consultant with PLS. It was during the beginning of his tenure at PLS that the widespread adoption of the Internet started to takeoff. Through grants offered by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, one of David’s early responsibilities at PLS was travelling to public libraries across the province to install computers and connect them to this emerging technology. During his travels, David would observe the openness of librarians towards the new technology and how they valued its potential for better serving their patrons.

David would also get the opportunity to exercise the skills and knowledge that he acquired earlier on in his career by developing a province-wide, digital inter-library loan system to replace the centralized, paper-based model being administered by the province. After several iterations, the system known today as fILL, which connects the catalogues of public libraries across the province for inter-library loans, was released thanks to David’s efforts.

In addition to fILL, David also played a key role in the acquisition and management of a wide range of print and electronic resources intended for use by librarians and their patrons; for instance, eLibraries Manitoba, EBSCOhost and a collection of large print and professional development materials. Counting Opinions, a software used to collect and share important data about libraries in the province, also fell under David’s portfolio.

David also had a hand in shaping policy during his tenure at the PLS. In 2017, the PLS launched a consultation to better understand the needs of public libraries in the province. Much of what was learned during these consultations helped to inform the Public Library Allocation of Grants Regulation which came into effect on April 1, 2024.

With the so-called age of artificial intelligence upon us, much like the Internet, David sees librarians as “well positioned to be trusted intermediaries.” Educating patrons about disinformation and promoting a culture of dialogue that is fact-based are some of the ways that he sees librarians playing a critical role in this new technological landscape. When the implications of disinformation for the health of our democracy are considered, for David, libraries are integral to maintaining “the structure of society and quality of life in Manitoba.”

Although much of David’s career was focused on the more technological aspects of libraries, his appreciation for their cultural significance is undeniable. During our sit down, he applauded the fearlessness of librarians in taking a firm stand against attempts to censor books with 2SLGBTQIA+ themes. As for the future of libraries, his hope is that Manitobans increasingly recognize the important role that libraries play as a “free third space at the heart of communities across the province.” He is confident that libraries will continue to work together to best serve their patrons and expressed how fortunate he’s been to have worked with librarians, for whom he considers to be the “kindest and best people.”

We’re always looking for more library workers to feature! Are you doing something interesting at your library that you want to share, or do you know someone in the province that is? Reach out to us at communications@mla.mb.ca.

To showcase the interesting and important work being done by libraries across the province, MLA interviews one library worker every other month about the unique work they do in order to deliver library services to Manitobans.

Earlier this year we interviewed Joan Ransom, Branch Librarian at the Stonewall Branch of the South Interlake Regional Library. Through her responses we learned everything from the importance of strategic planning, to how she finds delicious taco recipes! Read on to find out more about SIRL’s upcoming projects, including their four StoryWalk routes and the training session, “Accessible Audiobooks Made Easy”, happening on April 29th at the Stonewall Library. This free workshop is open to interested public library staff  – call 204-467-5767 or email admin@sirlibrary.com to register!

Can you tell us a bit about your library system or branch? Is there anything unique or unusual about it?

Our regional system consists of 2 branches and a bookmobile. My branch – the Stonewall Library – is the larger branch in the system and has a staff of myself, plus 1 full time and 6 part time staff. We are a fun bunch of people who truly enjoy working with each other and we love to do activities together away from work – like flower picking and aerial yoga!

Our Branch takes great pride in our I Love to Read month celebrations and our Summer Reading programming. We enjoy planning activities that go with our theme. This summer’s TDSRC “To the stars” theme is going to be epic as we have been planning our space programs and decorations.

Another big project we are doing this year is StoryWalk routes. We will manage 4 routes in various communities throughout our catchment area and are excited about combining literacy and outdoor walks. This is our 3rd year doing StoryWalks and we will rotate the stories every 2 weeks through the 4 routes. Project management software is very helpful as we keep the titles flowing through the routes.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about your work or your library?

The 2022 strategic planning session that our Director Clint Curle, our Board of Directors and our Branch Managers participated in was such a significant event in the lives of our libraries. It brought us together and really helped us focus on our goals, values and mission. Because of that we have a clear plan forward for the next few years. It was the first time I had been involved in a strategic plan and I found it to be an amazing experience.

Our work now is focused on meeting the goals outlined in the plan and it has given us a real sense of purpose as we use that filter to prepare and prioritize the work we do at the Branch. I find that our staff has a better sense of the big picture and take pride in the professional work we do in our communities.

What is something happening at your library that you’re excited about?

At the end of April we are launching a new program called “Accessible Audiobooks Made Easy” and I am so very excited about it. We were awarded a large grant through the Province of Manitoba Accessibility Fund and were able to purchase 11 Victor Reader4M Stratus machines. We have pre- loaded them with titles from CELA in various genres. Not only will we be able to lend them to our patrons, but we are making them available through ILL for any rural public library to borrow for their patrons.

The folks with lived experience that are testing the program have given us such great feedback and have cemented our commitment to this program. When they tell us it is ‘life changing’ and the ‘best thing that has happened to them’ – we know we are making a difference in their lives. We hope that this project increases accessibility to library material for patrons who have print disabilities and are so happy to be sharing these devices and titles with all Manitobans.

We are hosting a free library workshop on April 29 for rural library staff to come and learn about the project and try the machines out. We are excited to host Jessica Desormeaux from CELA who will be speaking about their services. We are taking registrations and hope to welcome many of our peers to the Stonewall Branch.

What is a challenge you’re currently facing?

A challenge I think many of us face is keeping all the balls in the air. We are making a difference for our patrons and bringing quality programs to our communities, but managing staff time is one thing I continually work on. I also feel that staff care is a priority for me. I took an excellent course called Cultivating Civility, Resilience, and Reflection in the Library Workplace through ALAeLearning last year that resonated with me. I strive to ensure that my staff feel heard, respected and valued.

What are you reading/watching/playing right now?

I usually like to have a fiction title and a non-fiction title on the go at the same time. The novel on my nightstand right now is The Book Woman’s Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson. I enjoyed her book The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek and this novel is a sequel that continues the themes of sisterhood, justice and the power of books.

I am an avid knitter and the non-fiction title I am reading is Patty Lyons’ Knitting Bag of Tricks by Patty Lyons. It is chock full of helpful hints and I am getting a lot out of it. YouTube has recently taught me how to knit in the continental style and I am getting faster with less errors as time goes on!

We are glued to CBC on Thursday nights to cheer on our hometown potter Jen Sonnenberg as she competes in the Great Canadian Pottery Throw Down. It is old school tv watching as you cannot binge all the episodes and anticipation is part of the fun as we wait to see what happens each week. My husband and I recently binged the Netflix documentary series “Taco Chronicles” and have since been cooking many different varieties of tacos. Not only was this an interesting series – it has proven to be delicious!

We’re always looking for more library workers to feature! Are you doing something interesting at your library that you want to share, or do you know someone in the province that is? Reach out to us at communications@mla.mb.ca.

To showcase the interesting and important work being done by libraries across the province, MLA interviews one library worker every other month about the unique work they do in order to deliver library services to Manitobans.

In January we talked with KC Bateman, Library Technician and Academic Integrity & Copyright Officer at the Assiniboine Community College Library in Brandon. In addition to the many responsibilities of her position, KC and her colleagues have been tackling the ongoing challenges (and opportunities) faced by those using AI in academic research. Read on to see how KC balances her role in teaching students about AI from both her perspective as a Library Technician and the College’s Academic Integrity Officer.

Can you tell us a bit about your library system or branch? Is there anything unique or unusual about it?

I work at the Assiniboine Community College Library and we are located in the Victoria east campus in Brandon. What might be unique about us is that we service not only this campus but a dozen or so ‘off campus’ or revolving sites.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about your work?

My job is unique in the way that I spend more time in the classroom with students than most other academic library technicians. The beginning of each term at the college is the busiest time for me and I spend a lot of it not only in classrooms here at the Brandon campuses, but all across Manitoba. I give presentations to the students that help them become familiar with post-secondary research, library services, citing, and academic integrity and artificial intelligence. These sessions not only give students a good head start on their post-secondary journey, but also introduce them to at least one person in the library which opens they door for them to be a little more comfortable in seeking out our assistance. I feel like these sessions are vital for our off-campus sites as students there can feel isolated and like they don’t have the same access as our Victoria Ave E. campus students. I like to deliver as many of those sessions in person as possible to better convey the message that we are always ready and willing to help out in remote areas as much as we can.

What is something happening at your library that you’re excited about?

Our library has been navigating the challenges of Artificial Intelligence. Our Library Manger and I spent this past summer learning about introducing students to AI that can help with their research, and how to detect the use of it in instances of academic misconduct. We’ve coordinated sessions for both students and staff on all things AI and brought in a lot of material on the subject. We were even featured in our local newspaper for our work on and with AI. Also, and this is mostly a brag on the work of our Library Manager, Josh Seeland, we’ve been able to keep up or be one step ahead of most other institutions when it comes to creating policy and guidance on academic misconduct where AI is involved.

What is a challenge you’re currently facing?

As much as I’m excited by what our library is doing with Artificial Intelligence, it has also presented a challenge with how students approach research and assignment completion. This past term especially, we’ve seen questions about how to find information go way down and academic misconduct shoot up. Being the college’s Academic Integrity Officer as well as a library technician, I sometimes end up being involved in both sides of the issue. My sessions are set up to help students understand the line between positive and helpful use of AI in hopes of misconduct prevention but when misconduct does happen, either the Library Manager or I are often involved. Trying to find a balance between these roles can be a challenge.

What are you reading/watching/playing right now?

I’m a sucker for a good fantasy novel. I’m currently reading House of Roots and Ruin by Erin A. Craig. It’s the second book in a series and both have been fantastic.

We’re always looking for more library workers to feature each month! Are you doing something interesting at your library that you want to share, or you know someone in the province that is? Reach out to us at communications@mla.mb.ca.

To showcase the interesting and important work being done by libraries across the province, MLA interviews one library worker each month about the unique work they do in order to deliver library services to Manitobans.

This month we’ve talked with Krista Law, Library Administrator from Lakeland Regional Library. In addition to serving Killarny and Cartwright, Krista is a volunteer with MLA’s Prison Libraries Committee, and can be seen below with her new best friend Bindi being held by Alex Froese of the Manitoba Burrowing Owl Recovery Program (Krista is sadly not the one holding the owl).

Can you tell us a bit about your library system or branch? Is there anything unique or unusual about it?

Our library system consists of two branches, Killarney and Cartwright. We’re in southwestern Manitoba about two and a half hours from Winnipeg and an hour from Brandon. Killarney is our main branch and administrative hub. Our municipalities border some RMs that don’t have library systems, so we do have a few non-resident members as well. We serve around 4800 people between the two branches, and we were one of the areas that saw a slight increase in population with the last census. We are fortunate to have very supportive municipalities as well as community foundations. These small communities really appreciate their libraries, and we are very grateful and humbled to serve them.

I came to the library world in a fairly roundabout way. I started my career in book selling for various bookstores and for the CD Plus music chain where I was their book buyer (remember music stores?). I then worked in social service and non-profit administration for a few years at a couple different places. When I decided to move to the Cartwright area from Winnipeg to be closer to family, I really wondered what kind of job I might do. It turns out that the library is a perfect fit combining my book industry knowledge with social services.

What is one thing you wish more people knew about your library?

I think people are coming around to understanding that libraries are more than books. We provide so much community support in the form of programming, casual IT supports, and a public space where anyone can come regardless of who they are and not spend a dime.  At our library I try really hard to make sure everything we offer is free. If I can find funding to offer a program at no cost, that is my ideal. We do have a seriously excellent used book sale in our basement, but even that is the best deal in town. We want everyone to feel welcome here and get exactly what they need out of the space.

I also volunteer with the MLA’s Prison Libraries Committee. Because I’m not in Winnipeg, I monitor the donation email address remotely. The PLC is a project I really believe in, so supporting them in the small way I can is really important to me. Access to books and information should be for all, and the Prison Libraries Committee does some really amazing work with incarcerated folks around the province. Making my library a welcoming space, plus helping out with the PLC are the best ways I can facilitate this. Small plug time, if you are interested in the PLC but don’t live near Winnipeg there are still lots of volunteer opportunities that can be done remotely.

What is something happening at your library that you’re excited about?

We partnered with the Services for Seniors group here to fund and buy some new electronics. We bought some Victor Readers, Envoy Connects and iPad minis that I’ve set up as eReaders. The new program is all about accessibility. We have a lot of older patrons who need larger print than even large print books offer, or who are transitioning to audio books. We wanted to ensure we could help folks with these transitions by having devices to lend out. We also got radon detectors last year and a new projector and screen people can borrow at no cost. Broadening what we have available to borrow is important to us. In a small town especially, I think it’s important to offer as much as we can.

We are also about to do a renovation at our Cartwright Branch. This little branch is on an older building that has not seen much love in a long time. We’re doing some cosmetic stuff, but we are also improving accessibility with a new public washroom and new doors. We’re just starting on this, but it’s pretty exciting.

What is a challenge you’re currently facing?

Our biggest challenge at this point is space. Our Killarney branch is just too small for us to offer everything we’d like to. We have increased programming in the last few years, but struggle with our space. We have had to turn down partnerships because of lack of space. We have maxed out our shelf space even though I love weeding. We have started talking about a new space in Killarney and are planning a feasibility assessment to see if there is community support for this. We feel that there is, and we’re excited to see if it’s a possibility.

What are you reading/watching/playing right now?

I have a half hour drive each way to work, something I actually love when it’s not icy. I listen to a LOT of podcasts and audio books on my drive. I have really fallen in love with the audio memoir read by the author. Right now I’m listening to Eat a Peach by David Chang which compliments my deep love of TV about food and cooking. Also, if you are not listening to the Handsome Podcast you are missing out. As for reading with my eyes, I just finished Moon of the Turning Leaves and cannot recommend it and its predecessor Moon of the Crusted Snow enough.

We’re always looking for more library workers to feature each month! Are you doing something interesting at your library that you want to share, or you know someone in the province that is? Reach out to us at communications@mla.mb.ca.