Elizabeth (Betsy) Sterner is the HSLI Member of the Quarter! Betsy is currently Health Sciences & Science Librarian and Assistant Professor at Northern Illinois University’s Founders Memorial Library. She is also the President-Elect of HSLI.
How did your 16 years as a high school teacher prepare you for working with college students in a library setting?
As a high school teacher, I learned patience and resourcefulness and improved my communication skills. I learned how to work with many people in a stressful environment with limited financial support. I learned how students learn and how to provide a positive learning environment and scaffolding for them to engage and thrive in their own learning processes. These skills translated directly to my work as an academic librarian. When I present or work with faculty and students, I can listen to their questions and concerns and move them forward to attain their goals.
What was teaching in Warsaw, Poland, like? How did you overcome any educational or cultural barriers?
I taught the general sciences, biology, chemistry, and physics to grades 3-11 at an international school in Warsaw, Poland, for 2.5 years. It was a wonderful experience. The most immediate barrier I faced upon arrival was learning Polish. Some people spoke German or English, but otherwise, I relied on my skills in Polish. The school where I taught was an international school, which meant that students and teachers were from countries around the world and dealt with any struggles together. I had the honor of spending holidays with Polish families and friends and learning about their traditions as I improved my language skills. I was really touched by Teacher’s Day and the genuine appreciation I felt from students, parents, and the community.
You have researched and presented on systematic reviews, including for HSLI. What advice would you give someone who is new to systematic reviews?
My advice is to create a network and get some training. Systematic reviews can be overwhelming. A network of experienced librarians can help troubleshoot issues and solve problems that may arise. I have been grateful for the professional development offered through HSLI. Additionally, I found the MLA Systematic Review Services Specialization extremely helpful. A colleague of mine completed and speaks highly of the Evidence Synthesis Institute training for librarians hosted by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
As you taught German, do you have any favorite German-language authors?
Two of my favorite poems to read with students were the “Erlkönig” by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1782) and “Ich saz uf eime steine” by Walther von der Vogelweide (12-13th century). “Erlkönig” is a beautiful but tragic poem that students could comprehend. They had a greater appreciation for Goethe after reading “Ich saz uf eime steine” in Middle High German, which differs quite a bit from modern standard German. We also enjoyed reading stories by Michael Ende (e.g., Lenchens Geheimnis from 1991), Erich Kästner (e.g., Emil und die Detektive from 1929), and the original Grimm brothers’ fairy tales (e.g., “Schneewittchen” and “Aschenputtel”). These original Grimm fairy tales were highly edited before being made into Disney cartoons.
Congratulations on winning HSLI President-Elect! What goals do you have for the organization?
I will work to maintain the success of HSLI and continue to build on HSLI’s offerings of continuing education, support of new members, and collaboration with other health sciences-related library organizations.