As we see another remote semester come to a close, it is sometimes surreal to think of how long we have been providing support for our U of A community from afar. We were curious to find out what kind of hacks, tips, or pearls of wisdom our colleagues had discovered after working from home, so we asked, What have you learned while working remotely?
Doris Wagner, Librarian (Law, Sociology, MLCS, History, CSL, & Wirth Institute)
When the Internet stops it’s full outright panic mode and chaos ensues and all you can think is oh ****. Over the last year there were a few times where I had no power due to construction or plugging too many appliances in and blowing a fuse. It’s nerve racking when it happens, as everything pretty much stops. I then ran to my phone and used my data to get info or get my power going again. It’s interesting how hyper aware you become of the importance of having access to the Internet and how lucky you really are, as some people deal with problematic or having no access to Internet all the time.
Eva Romanick, Information Services Specialist
Life hack 101: For times when you are missing Snagit from your “at work” computer > SHIFT-FUNCTION-S on a PC lets you screen capture the info you need when helping people (COMMAND-SHIFT-3 on a Mac). Sometimes, a picture really is worth a 1000 words, especially when it’s Monday morning and your words simply can’t describe what a picture can.
Meredith Bratland, Strategic Communications Manager
Collaboration can happen effectively outside of the team meeting. Or as I like to think, “Less meetings, more calm!”
Dale Askey, Vice-Provost (Library & Museums) and Chief Librarian
I learned that it’s very easy during a pandemic to discover that I haven’t even stepped outside for several days in a row.
Starting earlier this year, I really pushed myself not only to get outside, but to carve out the time to engage in winter activities that get me way out of the house.
This has been key for improving my mental health in 2021 and I hope to continue to grow the habit of being deliberate about planning mini-adventures year-round.
A big thanks to our folks for their contributions! On behalf of the Library & Museums team, we wish you a safe and re-charging summer, and congrats to those who have finished their programs! Should you have any questions for our intrepid library team, don’t hesitate to reach out and Ask Us! We are shortening our hours for the spring/summer terms, for full details on our services please visit our website!
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