This post was originally published as an assignment for INFO 200 Information Communities at the School of Information at San José State University.
Hello everyone! My name is Trilby. My finger has been hovering over the submit button to apply to this graduate program for almost 3 years. My greatest weakness is my indecisiveness. I just simply could not decide if I should pursue the MLIS or devote all of my energy to my art and design business. I have worked in libraries 3 separate times over the last 20 years, so I think I need to come to terms with the natural pull that Library Land has on my soul. In addition to libraries, my career spans work as a baker, ceramic artist, communications specialist, and web designer.
When the pandemic hit and I realized I needed something to keep me focused and ensure I was able to contribute in some meaningful way to the emerging digital communities. I see a big fundamental shift coming to our established systems. Education, museums, libraries, visual and performing arts are all systems that will need to continue to adapt to an increasingly virtual world. I love libraries. But I also love art, technology, and research. The MLIS appeals to me because it touches on all of my interests. I also think learning to be an information professional will help me to become a better artist.
A little more about me. I grew up in Philadelphia, PA. In the 1990s, I moved to Arcosanti and lived there for nearly ten years. I now live in Phoenix, Arizona with my husband who is also an artist. Our twin daughters just started their junior year of college together in Massachusetts. This summer we lost 2 elderly pets, so now we just have 1 dog and 1 cat. The nest grows emptier all the time.