Library Systems

"This year I decided to take a different approach in recruiting students for the Library Systems unit. There was a tremendous shift in the number of Student Aide versus College Assistant bodies. Also, the number of work-study students increased on a big scale, from one in 1999 to four this year. Despite the fact that it is very difficult for me to find a student with the right skills and knowledge, I am very pleased with the work most of them are doing.

"As proof of Library Systems' popularity, every semester I'm getting a substantial number of enquires from students interested in being employed, not to mention CIS students eager to do CIS 60.1/60.2 projects with us. Since it is not by default but rather by hard work that the best of the best work-studies become Student Aides or College Assistants, I can see a huge change in attitude towards discipline, work, and professionalism. Now Library Systems CAs see themselves as professionals, and I'm trying to create an atmosphere of a businesslike environment. This helps our graduates to succeed in the business world outside of their alma-mater. Our staff proudly puts the experience obtained in Library Systems as the main part of their resumes." Alex Rudshteyn, Associate Director for Library Systems

If there were a poster child/poster unit for cross-training, AIT would take the prize. Thanks to the enlightened and practical leadership of Director for Library Systems and Academic IT Howard Spivak, staff routinely move from unit to unit, project to project, as need dictates. Howard's Monday afternoon meetings, where all professional staff gather to plan and exchange information, are legend: it is here that those who need help confess it, and those who are able supply the needed assistance. The beauty and purity of the model serve the Library well.