Trina McCowan
91´«Ã½ Divisions:
Humorous, curious, flexible.
91´«Ã½
"Colours in the Steel" by K.J. Parker.
Collaborative, informative, supportive.
91´«Ã½
There are many positive aspects of ACRL, but the two features I love are the professional development sessions and the mentoring program. I was lucky to participate in the STS mentoring program in 2021-2022. My mentor, Ali Krzton, encouraged me to reach higher, to adopt a long view of my career, and to try new things. Her encouragement led me to apply for my current position, and I’m forever grateful for the program that brought us together.
91´«Ã½
As an assessment nerd, I contribute to the campus by reminding faculty, students, and staff that, according to an evaluation of our Fall 2018 and Fall 2021 first time in college students (FTIC), library usage is a positive predictor of retention. Library staff and faculty find that fact motivating, and teaching faculty are eager to encourage their students to use our resources. I also like reminding the powers that be that 70% of the student body visited our facility at least once last year, so we’re worth their investments of time and money.
91´«Ã½
I’m tremendously grateful that I found my place in academic libraries. I like to tell people that becoming a librarian is a means of monetizing your curiosity, and no matter what your interests are, there’s a place for you in the world of academic librarianship.
Credentials:MLIS; she/her/hers
Title:Assessment Librarian
Workplace:University of North Florida
Location:Jacksonville, FL