Interviewee: Ms. Kayo Sakemi, Manager, Resource Management, Media Center Head Office, Keio University

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Q What do you love most about being a librarian?

The connection between libraries is beyond the framework of one institution. There are efforts across libraries and countries to ensure content can be immediately delivered to the people who need it -  such as union catalogs, interlibrary loan, and digitization. The spirit of collaboration between librarians is wonderful and what I like most is feeling connected to the world whilst doing my job.

Q What products or tools have made your experience as a librarian easier?

"Anglo-American Cataloging Rules, 2nd ed. (AACR2)" is a tool that has broadened my horizons as a librarian. Data written according to the same cataloging rules can be understood and used in common across languages, regardless of who created it. Well-created data can be used wherever you go, enabling highly accurate searches and forming the foundation of library services. When I realized that I could get that kind of breadth by using this rule, I was able to understand the depth and fun of cataloging work.

Q If you were starting your career again now, what do you wish you could tell yourself?

I've never wanted to start my career over! But if I did, I'd recommend improving language and IT skills.

Q. What one piece of advice would you give to early career librarians?

"Dare to lose."
When trying something new, there are twists and turns to reach your goal. Efficient, quick routes are good, but you can usually still get there by taking a detour and often taking risks can pay off!  

Q. What is the best piece of advice anyone has given you that’s helped you to develop professionally?

"Do not run away from the user."
These are the words that my senior instructor told me when I first stood at the library counter. I was taught that it is important to get a thorough understanding of your user's wishes in order to provide better service - not to mention when responding to complaints! I still think of these words now.

Q. Are there any resources/websites/professional groups that you use or are part of which could help other librarians in their professional development?

In my sixth year as a librarian, I entered a graduate school for working adults. I remain in touch with my fellow students from that time. As a daily source of information, I often use the Current Awareness Portal website (https://current.ndl.go.jp/) provided by the National Diet Library.