This is our FaMI apprenticeship!
Hey!
We are Melina and Svenja, 2nd year apprentices at Bochum University Library. On this page we answer your questions about the apprenticeship as a specialist in media and information services - specializing in libraries (FaMI for short) from the perspective of trainees.
Our apprenticeship in 3 words
Melina
- Fun
- Educational
- Enriching
Svenja
- Over
- Too
- Quickly
FAQ
What are your tasks?
During our training period, we visit all areas of the library.
At the beginning we were in the information and usage area. Here we help users at the counter, but also in the background, to find various media and make their research as pleasant as possible.
After our time in media processing, we were able to understand the ordering and delivery process that brings the books to our library and how they are then entered into the catalog.
At the Exchange and Publications Office, we learned that the individual faculties have their own rules for accepting university publications and how to store them properly.
For three weeks, we were allowed to get a taste of public relations and sustainability. We were introduced to the professional, public appearance of the university library and were given an insight into the projects through which our library contributes to sustainability.
During our time at the journal office, we accepted journals, made them available, entered them into various databases and learned how journal articles are published.
Our time at the Digital Humanities Center (DHC) was spent learning how older media and work processes are being converted to digital to support research in the humanities. For example, we presented historical maps as digital 3D models and looked at the "markdown" markup language.
Our colleagues in the binding department showed us how to deal with damaged media, how we prepare them for repair at the bookbinder and how new media find their way onto our shelves.
And all this was just a glimpse of what we have done so far!
What do I need to know about the vocational school?
Our vocational school is the Karl-Schiller-Berufskolleg. We always spend 2 days a week there.
Halfway through our training, we take an intermediate examination in the subjects Special Business Studies (SBL), General Business Studies (AWL) and Data Processing.
What kind of subjects are these?
SBL is specifically about the technical aspects that we will need later in our careers. For example, everything to do with cataloging, procurement or different types of media.
In AWL, we are taught all kinds of things about business. From our rights in training to “what do I need to set up a company?”, everything is covered here.
In Data Processing, we deal with various organizational theories.
In addition to these subjects, German, English, politics, religion, biology and sports are also taught.
What can I do if I can't keep up with the lessons?
The topics in the vocational school are very close to what we do in the company. If you need help, you can always ask questions here and get the help you need.
But help is also available from the vocational school. You will find contact persons for your questions in the so-called self-learning center.
Can/must I do internships?
There are various internships for us during our training period. One internship in an archive and one in a public library.
If we want, we can of course make more.
We also have the opportunity to do an internship abroad in cooperation with the Erasmus program.
This also gives you an idea of the other FaMI areas.
What are other specialist areas for FaMIs?
There are a total of 4 different areas for FaMIs:
- Archive
- Library (public/scientific)
- Information and documentation
- Medical documentation
Can I still study afterwards?
Sure thing! After completing the FaMI training, it is possible to study library science and broaden your horizons.
The course in NRW would take place at the TH-Köln. You can find more information about the course here.
What are your working hours like?
Our working hours are from 8 am to 4.30 pm. As trainees, we do not take part in flextime.
What surprised you?
Melina
I was surprised to find that libraries do a lot more digital work than I initially realized.
Svenja
I was definitely surprised by how much there is behind this simple term librarian.
Our tip for you
Just go for it.
If organization is your thing, then this is the right place for you.
You should have an open approach to people, the ability to work in a team and general PC knowledge.
Criticism and suggestions are welcome. So don't hold back there.
You will be welcomed here with kindness and patience, so don't be afraid to make mistakes. After all, you learn from them!
Our final word
We hope that we were able to inspire you for the profession and answer all your questions sufficiently.
If you still have any doubts, why not apply for an internship and get to know the profession through practical experience?
Best regards
Melina and Svenja
