Elevation through reflection: closing the circle to improve librarianship

• Main Authors: Jolene M. Miller, Stephanie Friree Ford, Anna Yang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University Library System, University of Pittsburgh 2020-07-01
• Series: Journal of the Medical Library Association
• Subjects: reflective practice; reflective writing; reflection; medical librarians; health sciences librarians; practice improvement
• Online Access: http://jmla.pitt.edu/ojs/jmla/article/view/938

Reflective practice is a strategy promoted as a way to improve professional performance and to develop expertise. Intentional reflection on work situations can lead to improved understanding of a specific situation, identify strategies for similar situations in the future, and uncover assumptions that hinder service to patrons. Research has identified lack of knowledge to be a barrier to health sciences librarians engaging in reflective practice. This article introduces the use of intentional reflection at work: what it is, how it helps, and how it can be applied in librarianship. It also provides practical advice on how to choose a format, how to use a model to guide reflection, and how to incorporate it into work.