Pursuing the Masters in Library and Information Science program at SJSU is more than just learning theoretical knowledge, it’s also about applying what you’ve learned to solve real-world problems. The module INFO 294 (or MARA 204) allows students to pursue an internship for course credit and to gain experience in a field of library science that interests them.
This past summer, I had the opportunity to be an iSchool Book Ecosystems Intern. Led by the iSchool Director at SJSU, Dr. Anthony Chow, the iSchool Book Ecosystems project focuses on addressing the literacy gap in underserved communities around the world. The current work includes literacy projects in Philadelphia and California in the United States, as well as bigger initiatives in Ukraine and Kenya. Partnering with the Little Free Library, a non-profit organization that promotes neighbourhood book exchanges, the project seeks to install community book boxes also known as “Little Free Libraries” in areas of low literacy.
Working as a project intern for Kenya, I gained valuable experience focusing on developing a literacy initiative for children between the ages of 4 and 8. I contributed in creating marketing materials for fundraising which raised over $15,000 and would go on to help ship 80,000 carefully selected books to Nairobi. I also applied my editing skills to create a video about SJSU’s bookdrive initiative for Ukraine at the ALA Conference this year. By attending meetings with organisations like KEY Libraries (Knowledge Empowering Youth), a Kenyan and Canadian registered charity, I learned the ropes of liaising with different organizations and keeping track of our projects.
This internship helped me build my skills in project management, teamwork, communication, and graphic design outside of the classroom, simultaneously contributing to a global literacy initiative. As a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, I have found my purpose in championing literacy.
A practical experience is key in setting you apart in a competitive job market and will help you explore what you want to do after graduation. If you’re a MLIS, MARA, or Post-Masters Certificate student interested in doing an internship, check out the SJSU internship database and the SJSU Internships page for more information.
Learn more about Soma Safari: Kenya Book Ecosystem Project here: https://ischool.sjsu.edu/kenya-project
Please donate to the literacy initiative here: https://www.booksforafrica.org/donate/donate-project/kenya/national-library-service-soma-safari-project.html
