24-in-7 Seminar

During the December 11, 2012 Connect Librarian Forum, attendees formed small groups of 5-7 people and were led by Clyde Herrod (CAT) under the following instructions:

Mission: With 7 minutes of group collaboration -- using exactly 24 words -- create a definition, description, or explanation of our theme, "Librarians"

Clyde gave an example by creating his own 24-word definitions of a jigsaw puzzle:

Dictionary Type: A jigsaw puzzle is a visual concept composed of many small interlocking pieces which, when connected correctly, reveal a complete picture, pattern, or design.  (24 words)

Particular reference: Five hundred small similarly shaped pieces with bits of color and form fit together to detail an image of an inviting early autumn scene.   (24 words)

Whimsical:  Why don’t these crazy pieces fit? Oh! This is the wrong piece! This is frustrating! No wonder some people call these things brain breakers!  (24 words)

The definitions from each of the four groups are recorded below and those unable to attend are invited to write their own 24/7 definition and post it in the comments section.

Group I

Librarian: Trained information matchmaker, professional Googler, storyteller, weeder, reader, first-class shusher, book group leader, treasure-finder, customer server, listener, further listener, nodder, mind-reader, charade interpreter.

Group II

Librarians: Literate, information-seeking, creative, intuitive, diverse, compassionate, really good-looking, patient person, information seekers, requires extremely good communication skills, people with standards, awesome, knowledgeable, compassionate, respectful.

Group III

Librarians organize and make information accessible. They act as social workers, detectives, teachers, and are brilliant, smart, quirky, nerdy, and must be open-minded.

Group IV

Librarian: Service oriented, connector to information, advisor, technology facilitator, connector to resources, provides educational programs and community programs, advocates for diversity, inclusive, savvy seekers – librarians.