What is the Personal Librarian Program?
The Personal Librarian program is designed to support students entering Maryland Institute College of Art in their research involving the collections and services of the Decker Library and Media Resources Collection (MRC).
In Fall 2012 the Personal Librarian program begins with a pilot phase focused on International Students in their first year at MICA. Each student will be matched with a librarian who will help him/her become oriented to conducting research using library resources and services.
If you are a student with a Personal Librarian, here are some ways that we can support you:
- Show you how to navigate the library systems quickly and efficiently.
- Help you find information for assignments, develop a research question, identify the best sources, and formulate a search strategy.
- Help when you don't know where to start your research, or you can't think of what to do next.
- Answer questions about Library/MRC policies, procedures and services, such as Inter-Library Loans or borrowing privileges at other libraries in the Baltimore area.
- Keep you informed with periodic e-mail messages explaining new resources and programs, as well as timely reminders like updates about library hours or special library events.
- Support you even during breaks, or when you are away from MICA doing research.
Things that a Personal Librarian won't do:
- Show you how to use software programs.
(try Lynda.com) - Do your research.
(the Learning Resource Center can help with time management & more) - Write or proof-read your paper for you.
(contact the Writing Studio) - Make photocopies, print-outs, or do scanning for you.
(MICA's Postal & Print department offers copy & printing services, and the Technology Systems & Services department oversees computer & print labs on campus)
How often you choose to work with your Personal Librarian is entirely up to you, but each Personal Librarian will be in touch with his/her students, and each is available by appointment for one-to-one research meetings. In addition, students can always inquire with the Librarian on duty at the Information Desk for assistance with research.
How to contact your Personal Librarian:
- Katherine Cowan ~ kcowan@mica.edu ~ (410) 225-2714
Office is on lower level of Library across from Information Desk - Christian Drolsum ~ cdrolsum@mica.edu ~ (410) 225-2402
Office is on lower level of Library next to Laptop Lounge - Marianne Sade ~ msade@mica.edu ~ (410) 225-2715
Office is on lower level of Library next to Laptop Lounge
Even if you do not have a Personal Librarian, help is always available
All users of the Decker Library can get help with research at the Information Desk on a walk-up basis during library hours, or contact the librarians by email (refer@mica.edu) or phone (410-225-2273) with questions or to set up an individual research appointment.
If you have questions about the Personal Librarian program, please contact the Decker Library Director:
- Tony White ~ awhite03@mica.edu ~ (410) 225-2311
Maps & Directions