Staff focus with Zelipa Chalibonena

LIBRARIAN

FULL NAME:
Zelipa Chalibonena 

WHAT IS YOUR FIELD OF SPECIALITY?
Library and Information Science. 

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU HAVE? 
Bachelor of Arts Library and Information Science and Public Administration 

WHAT ACHIEVEMENTS HAVE YOU ATTAINED THROUGHOUT YOUR CAREER?
I have had the privilege to successfully implement cataloging and classification systems that carter a wide range of interests and academic needs. I have also been able to create and maintain library collections which have helped to streamline the cataloging process ensuring that patrons can easily locate and access materials.  

DO YOU INTEND TO FURTHER YOUR STUDIES? WHAT WOULD YOU STUDY?
Definitely, I intend to do so. I am committed to ongoing personal growth and professional development. I plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science and definitely explore more on how I can enrich my career and stay abreast with current trends in my field.  

GIVE INSIGHT INTO YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A LIBRARIAN. HOW MANY BOOKS WOULD YOU SAY YOU HAVE READ?
My experience as a librarian has been incredibly rewarding as I have had the privilege of serving in a role that’s both personally and professionally fulfilling. With the opportunity to grow my career at OWU, an institution that embodies creativity, innovation, and technological excellence, I am constantly learning and eager to expand my knowledge.  

I have often been asked how many books I have read and my answer is that I have lost count as I am surrounded by lots of books. Additionally, my experience has taught me that librarianship is a multifaceted profession that goes beyond just reading books. It’s about fostering a love of learning and discovery, building inclusive and welcoming spaces, empowering individuals to achieve their goals, facilitating access to information and resources, and collaborating with others to create positive change.

WHAT KEEPS YOU GOING ON THIS JOURNEY YOU HAVE EMBARKED ON?
I am excited by the idea that everyone deserves access to knowledge and the opportunities it affords whether it is a student achieving academic success or educators wanting to impart knowledge. These moments make my role truly rewarding. 

WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR LOVE/PASSION TO DO WHAT YU DO? 
I love helping others and I find satisfaction in assisting patrons, answering their questions, and connecting them with the information they need, also assisting them in any way I can.  I am motivated by the thought that as a librarian, I have the privilege to do this. It is an incredible feeling. 

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE QUOTE? 
“Do what you can, with what you’ve got, where you are.” -Theodore Roosevelt- 

WHAT WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT WOULD YOU GIVE TO INDIVIDUALS ASPIRING TO BE LIBRARIANS?
Stay curious and committed to learning, the field of librarianship is ever-evolving. Go beyond the norm, create vibrant hubs of knowledge and make a difference in people’s lives. 

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Course Details

Fees: $32.00 / course
Credits: 1 Credit / course
Duration: 6-10hrs / week

(Includes 7 hours of self-study and a 3-hour live session with a facilitator)