People News: Summer 2013

Appointments

Queen’s University

Jenny Jing (MLIS) has been appointed to the position of Information Systems Librarian for a limited term.  Jenny worked for two years as the information specialist at IBM China before receiving her MLIS from McGill University. She then studied computer science at the Harvard Extension School in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Her other work experience includes seven years as a systems librarian at Harvard Business School, and eighteen months as the technology initiatives librarian at the Medical Library of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Jenny’s most recent position was as a database consultant at the Chinese Academy of Agriculture Science in Beijing, China.

University of Guelph

Melanie Parlette-Stewart (MLIS) has been appointed as Learning & Curriculum Support Librarian (Blended Learning) for an 18-month term beginning in May 2013. Prior to working at Guelph, Melanie was the program liaison for engineering and IT at Conestoga College from 2011-2013.

In her new position, she will investigate best practices and make recommendations regarding effective program development and assessment as the Information Literacy Team moves to a blended/hybrid model. She will create learner-centered online learning objects, such as tutorials, screencasts, and widgets.

Western University

Jennifer Robinson (MLS) has been appointed Director, Library and Information Services at Huron University College effective July 8, 2013.

Prior to her appointment Jennifer worked at Western Libraries for 15 years in various roles including as the head of research and instructional services in the D.B. Weldon Library, the acting director of the C.B. “Bud” Johnston Library and most recently as the communications and outreach librarian for Western Libraries.

Retirements

Ryerson University

After 35 years of service to the Library, and to Ryerson University, Liz Bishop, Associate Chief Librarian, will retire as of September 30. Liz started working at the library in 1978, and has witnessed many changes in the delivery of library services and the growth of Ryerson as an institution. In addition to being a long-time manager in Borrower Services, Liz was the acting chief librarian from 200 to 2007, and provided much-needed leadership in the library until a new chief librarian was named.  As the associate chief librarian, Liz has taken over strategic planning processes, evaluation and assessment, staff training and development, and the chairing of the Library Appointments and Promotions Committees.  Over the years, Liz has offered advice and mentored many librarians, as well as providing incredible guidance and support to Library staff. Her open door policy and positive attitude have left an indelible mark on the Library, and has helped foster an atmosphere of collegiality and respect.

Western University

Margaret Martin Gardiner (MLS) retired from Western University at the end of June. Margaret held a variety of professional and non-professional positions over many years of service within Western Libraries, including her last position as the university’s first assessment librarian. At Western’s June 2013 convocation Margaret was conferred the title of Librarian Emerita.