SLAIS SLA Student Chapter Report

 Gordon Coleman - Vice-President SLAIS SLA Student Chapter

On Monday, September 17th several special librarians representing the Western Canada Chapter came to UBC to give a presentation to SLAIS students on the SLA and the challenges of being a special librarian.

Brad McGuigan of AMEC/AGRA spoke about his unexpected path into special libraries and why he finds the environment so rewarding. Yasmin Chandra described some of her work at the Legal Services Society and the skill set which enables her to do it. Coral Payne of Micrologix Biotech spoke of the challenges she's faced and the way her position and status in the company have increased as she demonstrated her ability to contribute. And Julian Richards discussed his 'unconventional' work as an Information Architect at Blast Radius, and how it hinges on the basic skills and theoretical knowledge he learned at SLAIS.

Carol Williams introduced the speakers. Afterwards Debbie Millward gave a brief talk on the benefits of membership in the SLA. The turnout for the event was high, with more than 20 students in attendance and enthusiastic questions directed at each speaker.

The SLA Student Chapter is planning for its most active year yet. In addition to tours, speakers, and the mentorship program, the Student Chapter is also hoping to promote more networking between students and working practitioners by publicizing WCC events more widely at the school. We would be happy to hear from special librarians with ideas about how to help bridge the distance and draw more students into involvement with the SLA and special libraries.