Freshly Minted: Emily Maidment

April 27, 2026

Library and Information Technician (LIT) Student, Algonquin College

Which information studies program are you attending?

I am completing a Library and Information Technician Diploma at Algonquin College.

What are your current classes like? Which is your favourite so far, and why?

This year I took classes in legal, business, science, and medical reference, library software, Library of Congress and Dewey classification, reader’s advisory, metadata, library management, and marketing.

The classes I’ve enjoyed most are reference and Dewey classification. I enjoyed learning about the reference process in different fields, and had fun learning to navigate different information resources. I also enjoyed the process of building a Dewey Decimal number, it felt like putting together a puzzle.

What was it that initially drove you to librarianship?

Prior to joining the Library and Information Management fields I studied archaeology. I really enjoyed the research aspects of my degree, but did not have a specific focus or question I wished to explore through a masters. I decided to return to school to build on my research and information management skills, and possibly find work where I could help others with their research/learning.

If you could work anywhere, and do anything with information, what would your dream job look like?

I would love to work in a job that combined my previous archaeology experience with my new library/information skills. I really love learning about people and their cultures, and would enjoy getting to work in a museum or other area getting to work hands on with artifacts, in an academic library, with academics to research various related topics, or in a organization that deals with heritage.

If someone were considering going to information studies, what would you advise them about?

I would advise people to be open to learning about and trying different career paths within the field. Even if you are certain about the path you want to take after graduating, speak to people working in other areas and take placement opportunities in areas you are unsure about. You may find yourself drawn to an unexpected area. Additionally, be open to learning skills and technologies that may not directly relate to your future career. Even if you do not end up needing to know how to use those specific resources, learning how to adapt to new technologies is an important skill across the information field. Also, take advantage of the networking opportunities offered to students, such as association memberships and events. This is a great way to learn about the various career options available to you, get mentorship, and participate in current conversations in the field.

What do you think is the most important aspect of being an information professional today?

I believe the most important aspects of being an information professional in today’s world are supporting information literacy and protecting freedom of information. With emerging AI technologies and growing misinformation / disinformation being disseminated it is more important than ever to teach people essential information literacy skills. Information professionals can help people build critical literacy skills that allow them to confidently navigate new technologies to find trusted, reputable information sources.

Information professionals also play a crucial role in protecting and defending freedom of information. Whether defending against book challenges or encouraging proper information management of important documents, they ensure people have access to diverse opinions and official records.