Janet Quinn
**** ***** ****** 303-***-****
Denver, CO 80207 www.linkedin.com/in/janquin60
ablv3k@r.postjobfree.com
August 12, 2010
Attn: Hiring Manager
To the Hiring Manager:
A passion for improving collections and services to meet diverse patron
needs, comfort with troubleshooting computer problems, and customer-focused
approach are my key strengths. I am excited about the opportunity to bring
this balanced combination of customer service, library operations, and
technical expertise to the Library Assistant position currently available
within your company.
My background includes 4 years of library experience, including providing
reference assistance to students and assisting patrons with computer job
search activities. With a unique blend of interpersonal and technical
skills, I am able to assess customer needs, diagnose areas of difficulty,
and diffuse frustration by explaining available technology and library
systems. Highlights of my expertise include:
* Assisting patrons with using computer systems including library
databases, online job search tools, and Microsoft Office software.
* Supporting highly multicultural constituencies in urban settings,
including Russian, Latino, Bengali and Somalian populations, gaining
familiarity with developing programs and services to meet diverse
needs.
* Demonstrating initiative to engage patrons in library services,
developing "Staff Picks" online bibliography and newsletter to connect
customers and librarians, and reorganizing collections to increase
traffic.
* Guiding students in sound research using reference materials and
online databases, educating students in evaluating sources and gaining
exposure to collection development aligned with curriculum.
Additional details about my background are included on the enclosed r sum .
If you are looking for an individual to bring technological-savviness,
dedication, and enthusiasm for helping others to your team, I would welcome
the opportunity to meet with you.
Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Janet Quinn
Janet Quinn
2670 Olive Street 303-***-****
Denver, CO 80207 www.linkedin.com/in/janquin60
ablv3k@r.postjobfree.com
Library & Information Science Professional
* Service-oriented library professional with track record of consistently
assessing needs through active listening and offering responsive support
resulting in customer retention.
* Knowledgeable resource who repeatedly improves library experience for
diverse patron base, explaining available databases and collections and
troubleshooting computer issues.
* Technically proficient and able to educate patrons in computer systems
and software including:
Library Systems: DRA, SIRSI, Ex Libris
Software Applications: Word, Excel, Access, Publisher, Outlook
Databases: EBSCO, NoveList, Gail, WorldCat, FirstSearch, ProQuest
Education
Master of Arts in Library & Information Science 2006
Dominican University, River Forest, IL
Bachelor of Arts, Modern American Literature & Multicultural Literature
2003
Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, IL
Library Experience
Docent 2010 to Present
Community Technology Center, Central Library, Denver Public Library Denver,
CO
Serve as first point of contact for patrons, assessing needs and scheduling
appointments for computer use. Troubleshoot technical problems, educating
users in navigating computer systems, Microsoft Word, and websites to
perform online job search tasks.
o Monitor users of 18 computer stations according to library policy and
enforce policies, employing patient and helpful attitude to maintain
calm, non-judgmental, and empathetic while assisting frustrated users.
o Attend trainings to enhance knowledge and ability to troubleshoot
emerging technologies.
o Educate patrons in library database use and, credible and non-credible
source differentiation, outlining available resources and explaining
value of databases to specific research needs.
Library Volunteer 2010 to Present
Eloise May Library, Arapahoe Library District Denver, CO
Gain familiarity with collection, including large Russian and Latino
collections, to meet needs of multicultural community.
Young Adult Collection & Library Volunteer 2008 to 2009
Lincoln Belmont Public Library, Chicago Public Library System Chicago, IL
Specialized in arranging young adult collection and assisting youth
patrons. Shelved books and served as resource for patrons across the
facility and processed and organized holds for customer pick-up.
o Initiated redesign of poorly delineated young adult collection, making
improved signage to define space.
o Increased use of collection by displaying books to catch interest and
increasing attractiveness.
Janet Quinn
Page 2 of 2 303-***-****
ablv3k@r.postjobfree.com
Library Experience, Cont.
Cataloger 2006 to 2007
American Library Association Chicago, IL
Initiated project to catalog award-winning collection under threat of
theft, finding items in shelves, entering into Online Computer Library
Center (OCLC) using proper designations and links, and storing in locked
cases to prevent theft. Gained familiarity with OCLC system and Newberry
Award collection.
o Cataloged 500+ award-winning books from children and young adult
collections dating back to 1923, making collection information
accessible for remote users and historians.
Library Practicum 2006
Lincolnwood Public Library District Lincolnwood, IL
Specialized in children/young adult services and adult reference services,
and gained exposure to programming and circulation decisions aimed at
meeting needs of and attracting diverse constituent base. Assisted patrons
in locating materials within library shelves and explained check out
procedure.
o Performed up to 15 reference interviews daily and advised patrons in
using online catalog systems and selecting reference materials.
o Weeded picture book collection, wading through 50 shelves of books and
leveraging knowledge of children's collection to assist children from
nearby school with research and curriculum-related materials.
o Facilitated dialogue and strengthened library staff and patrons
connection by initiating creation of reader advisory application for
website, creating "Staff Picks" bibliography, and using Microsoft
Publisher to develop "Staff Picks" newsletter.
Additional Experience
Massage Therapist 1992 to 2009
Thousand Waves Spa / Family Health Alternative Chiropractic Clinic
Chicago, IL
Assessed client needs and created treatment plans using advanced knowledge
of anatomy and physiology, medical massage, and hydrotherapy.
o Retained clients and earned referrals based on excellent customer
service and responsiveness to client needs.
Professional Memberships & Additional Training
Member, American Library Association (ALA)
Member, Colorado Association of Libraries (CAL)
Massage Therapy Certification
New Mexico Academy of Massage and Healing Arts, Santa Fe, NM