Day in the Life - Libraries Week Showcase

Thursday 6th October - Narges Mahzoun

Tell us about your role: I work as library assistant at Ewell library. My role covers many interesting areas such as assisting customers locating books in the library, using public computers and finding materials online. Checking books in and out, handling loans between libraries, organize and reshelve returned items such as books and audiobooks. I deal with counter, phone, and email enquiries. I help plan and participate in library events and promoting activities and services we run.

What's your favourite part of your role? There are many remarkable things about working in the library however, helping people and learning at the same time is an outstanding aspect of my job. When I am helping others, I feel valued and satisfied and their smiles make my day e.g. when I help someone use the kiosk for the first time. I really enjoy being part of a team it makes my workplace like a second home.

Why did you choose to work in libraries??My passion for reading and learning were essential reasons for working in a library. I believe that books can unite people and allow us to learn. Coming from a diverse background, I found libraries were a multicultural meeting point for members of the community. A place where you can learn new things and expand your knowledge constantly while you are helping others e.g. Roman History, how to crochet, practise French, how to understand the library catalogue.

Why are libraries so important to the community? Public libraries?are functioning beyond lending out books. While the traditional activities are still there, they have a “go-to” role for local people and help them figure out the complexities of life. We can gather them for different activities and events, help them to learn new useful skills and provide them with sense of belonging to their own community. One of our local residential homes have used Ewell Library to help their new residents join their new local community.

What's the most interesting inquiry you've had during your role? When I was working in Surrey Preforming Art library at Ewell, one of the Music Group representatives asked me if their requested vocal score is SATB or not. This question triggered a desire in me to search and learn what SATB stands for (Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass) and how to recognise it in different musical works. It was a very interesting question that led to learn something new.

What book/activity/service would you recommend? Activities and events for parents who have young children with additional needs. It would be a fantastic opportunity for them to come to the library, chat with us and other families and relax with their children sharing a range of events.

Specific to Libraries Week: How do you support people to #NeverStopLearning in your role? By planning and running a diverse range of inclusive activities for children and adults we make sure that everyone finds something for them in the library and everyone can belong here.

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