After seven years at SAMK, Savinainen, who previously worked as an information service advisor, started this autumn in a new role focusing on resource description and metadata production. The new position means a lot of familiarization with new things. Of her previous responsibilities, the work with Justus publications continues.
– Customer service used to be at the core of my work. My new role brings plenty of new things to learn, but I still want to stay close to students and staff, says Savinainen.
Lowering the threshold for service
In everyday work, the help is often concrete: finding materials, accessing online materials, source references, printing or solving small challenges together at the computer. If the answer is not immediately available, Savinainen will find out and get back to the matter.
She supports international students by using plain Finnish and offering opportunities to practise the language during library visits. For many, the library is also a place to ask about everyday matters related to campus life.
– Many people apologize for disturbing me when they come to talk. I always tell them that they’re not disturbing me – that’s what we’re here for. The goal is that no one is left alone, not even with the smallest of issues.
Libraries have evolved from book lending services into digital information hubs: the printed collection has shrunk, while online materials, e-books and databases are part of everyday life.
– Smart shelves enable self-service, while the staff’s work is increasingly focused on providing advice and guidance in using online materials – at the same time, the library has remained an important place for studying and spending time together, she notes.
Why library work and why SAMK?
Savinainen has worked in bookshops, commercial office work and libraries during her career. She was already attracted to the university of applied sciences libraries during her studies.
– Working in a university of applied sciences library offers a unique perspective on teaching and research. The work is varied, and our team has a lot of expertise that benefits our clients.
Susanna Savinainen finds her way to recharge in her daily routines
– I walk to work, and that helps me clear my head – sometimes I even find the solution to a problem on the way.
Savinainen is a book lover herself. She says she prefers non-fiction to fiction. She is particularly interested in biographies and literature related to psychology, well-being and brain health. She likes to read traditional books because she spends so much time in front of a screen during the day.
– A book doesn’t buzz or vibrate, and you don’t need an internet connection to read it – it’s somehow easier to comprehend, she laughs.
