13 Questions With: Katherine Clubine

November 30, 2014

Senior Information Specialist, Industry Canada

A hero who has inspired you in your career?

During my undergrad, I had a music history prof named Dr. Malyshko. She asked me what my plans were after 4th year and I confessed that I wasn’t really sure. I had looked into graduate programs in music history and arts administration, but wasn’t really feeling it.

She said “libraries are so important in music history research, and I know that there are graduate programs in librarianship, check them out”.

Dr. Malyshko’s tough courses were stressful, but she really taught me how to do serious research using library resources. I can say for sure I would not be where I am today without her suggestion!

The first job you ever held and at what age?

My first “real” job (apart from babysitting) was as a camp counsellor at summer day camps run by the city. I was 16.

Your first position in the library and/or information services field?

I began as an FSWEP student in the Industry Canada Library and Knowledge Centre (and I haven’t left!)

Coolest thing in your cubicle or office?

Librarian Kermit

What is your guilty pleasure?

Sleeping in late on the weekends. I am not a morning person!

Career advice – what’s your top tip?

If you want to work in Ottawa (not just the government, but anywhere in the city), work on your French.

In most organizations, a working knowledge of French (at minimum) is just as important as the Library degree or Library Tech diploma.

What useless skill(s) do you possess?

I am extremely good at the iPhone game 2048. I’m working on the 65 536 tile. I’m ashamed to say that this skill has come only from many, many hours of “practice”.

Proudest moment in your professional life?

Earning the promotion from Information Specialist to Senior Information Specialist. It showed me that I was definitely in the right career and hard work pays off!

If you had 24 hours all to yourself, how would you best like to spend it?

First, I would sleep in (see above), then I would enjoy a big cup of coffee (or 2) and a book.

Next I would spend some serious time practicing flute followed by pizza delivery for dinner (getting delivery is so decadent!).

Then, some binge watching on Netflix with my knitting and an early bed. Not very exciting, but relaxing for sure.

If you didn’t work in the information industry, what would you be doing?

I think I would be involved in the performing arts somehow – working at a granting organization like The Canada Council for the Arts or similar.

Finish this sentence: “In high school, I would have been voted the person most likely to … “

Stay a band geek forever (and it’s happened).

How do you stay current in your field?

By reading (publications from professional organizations, blogs and news), through involvement in professional organizations like the Canadian Federal Libraries Strategic Network (CFLSN) and by attending conferences (when possible).

What would you like your headstone to read?

Shh, I’m sleeping!