New Beginnings: Starting a Career as a Medical Librarian during a Global Pandemic

Objective This poster aims to discuss experiential reflections of starting a new career as a medical library professional during the global pandemic and the respective supervisorial perspective. The reflections convey some of the challenges faced while beginning a career where traditional on-the-job experience was unavailable and the issues of providing training and mentoring remotely to subordinates. Methods Written narratives from two library professionals who received their degrees during the global pandemic and their supervisors. It presents subjective pros and cons in a ‘new normal’ workplace from the reflections written by four medical library professionals. As well, it lists some of the methods they utilized to combat burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results We found some of the changes resulted in quality-of-life improvements in the workplace, while other adjustments placed limitations on services provided. Collectively, we were able to scrutinize how we traditionally utilized workspace and staffing to see if there is a better approach as we go forward. The burden of the pandemic still affects the library with staff shortages as we begin to recover and move to full reopening in preparation for the new academic year. Conclusions Some of the traditional aspects of learning through on-the-job experiences were, unfortunately, limited. Alternatives for professional development were implemented, and some provided great opportunities. There have been obvious challenges to everyone’s personal and professional life since the start of the pandemic. Library professionals, traditionally, have had to adapt and evolve their job as patron needs shift which may make them more resilient. Some have found ways to thrive, and others find ways to get through the bumps