We are proud to highlight our members who commit their time and resources to helping Wisconsin libraries and librarians thrive through their work with the Wisconsin Library Association. Each month, we will be sharing their stories and hope you will be inspired to learn more about our programs or get involved!
Fill out the Lead with WLA form and be connected with other change agents, leaders, and committees that can use what you have to offer.
Carol Hassler | September 2023
 For which library, institution, or organization are you currently employed? If you are retired, what was your former organization?
Wisconsin State Law Library
How many year(s) have you been a member of Wisconsin Library Association?
4 years
What has been your favorite or most impactful function or event of WLA?
Government information day is one of my favorite WLA events! I've been a fan of government documents and data ever since my college years, where I have fond memories of researching federal legislative histories and statistics. Talking about finding and promoting access to government information is one of my passions.
How has being a member of WLA impacted you or your career?
As a special librarian, attending conferences in the broader library ecosystem is a great way to find new or time-tested services and strategies to improve our library’s targeted offerings. WLA has also opened up more connections to libraries for the State Law Library’s outreach to non-law librarians who may need to tackle legal reference questions.
Do you have a library role model (in Wisconsin or elsewhere) that has provided you with inspiration or guidance? Please share a little bit about it.
I’m always inspired by my coworkers! Outside of my library, I’m inspired by the online information and public outreach at the Texas State Law Library and Minnesota State Law Library. I have a hand in a lot of different projects in my job. Because of that, I look for inspiration in lots of different types of libraries for ideas on innovating public services, information access, and managing technology. Library communities are often connected by listservs or online forums - like WLA's e-lists - and these are rich places to find ideas or guidance well beyond my library’s walls.
Do you have any advice for new WLA members?
There are too many potential projects to do, and not enough staff to create them all from scratch in our libraries. Please share your expertise, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!
|
