Workshops * Conferences and meetings * Volunteer * Visit
Rutgers Libraries and Rutgers University Computing Services (RUCS) offer workshops throughout the year that will help you get up to speed in using their resources. These are generally short and FREE! To learn about library workshops, see http://wwww.libraries./rutgers.edu under News and Events. To learn about RUCS work shops and self-paced training materials, see http://www.nbcs.rutgers.edu.
Try to attend at least a few professional association meetings while you are still a student. In most cases, there are special discounts for students. Watch the PDS bulletin board and the LISSA listserv for announcements of upcoming events. Also, continuing education in New Jersey has usually been listed in an events calendar maintained by the State Library: http://www.njstatelib.org/; search under site map.
Many organizations appreciate help from students for special projects or selected functions. Volunteer opportunities are posted on the third floor bulletin board. You may find a topic for a term paper, enhance your resume, and gain a recommendation.
Every time you see a different information organization or library, you build your personal knowledge base. There are few ways better than the contrast-and-compare method to develop your judgment. Take advantage of library tours sponsored by LISSA, the ASIST Student Chapter, RUSLA Student Group, or arrange your own! The NJ Association of College and Research Libraries facilitates student shadowing of academic librarians for a day -- a great opportunity to learn about academic librarianship. Contact Luis Rodriguez for information: RodriguezL@mail.montclair.edu. If you need help, ask me.