During my first semester in the program, I was told that if the Readers' Advisory Services class was offered again while I was in the program, I should take it, and I'm glad I took that advice. I've learned so much about better assisting patrons through this class and the conversations I have had with my professor and my classmates. The multitude of RA tools I now have make me feel so much more prepared for helping others find materials that suit their interest. With the little experience I had with readers' advisory in the past, I'm excited to get more hands-on experience now that I actually know what I am doing. 

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Going into this class, I was slightly overwhelmed by the descriptions of each assignment, worried that I wouldn't be able to keep up with the complex ideas that were going to be covered. I was so happy to discover that I could keep up with the content and have the chance to engage with my classmates and professor to gain new understandings of the content. After only having virtual classes, the in-person class experience was mind-blowing. 

 

One of the most interesting conversations I thought we had was concerning how to address content warnings in readers' advisory. There can be a fine line between offering content warnings and spoiling the story. Additionally, what may require content warnings or seem inappropriate may not actually be problematic to others. We can't assume any life experiences, and it isn't our place to play gatekeeper with books. Yet, as librarians, it feels like we have a duty to note when there is disturbing content to readers, especially if we are recommending the book. The thoughts of my classmates and our guest speakers kept the ideas turning for me, and it was so engaging to be a part of.

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Now that this class is ending, I want to get out and get more hands-on experience now that I have a new set of tools in my toolbox regarding readers' advisory. I know that I still have so much to learn, and I'm excited to see where these new skills will lead me.