#SubjectLibrarianSaturday is a social media and blog series highlighting LSU Libraries’ subject librarians, whose job is to help students and faculty with their research at any stage.

Lili Bedoya is LSU Libraries’ Science Librarian. The responses below have been edited for length and clarity.

How do you approach research consultations to ensure patrons feel comfortable and supported? 

I approach my research consultations as a friendly collaboration because I am always learning new things from patrons. I am honest about how I will never know everything or be able to find the most perfect resources for every single project, but I make sure to explain that I will continue to exhaust every option available until I can offer a solution.

What do you enjoy most about helping patrons with their research and information needs?  

My favorite thing about helping patrons is demystifying the research process while helping them gain confidence in their research and ideas! Since I love learning new things, each consultation I get is a new excuse to do deep dives into new research topics.

Outside of your work as a librarian, what are some of your interests or hobbies?   

My main hobbies are reading books, listening to all kinds of music, and playing video games. At home I have two cats, a crested gecko, and an excessive number of plants that I care for.

How do you stay current with developments and trends in your field to better assist patrons with their research needs?

My current method for staying on top of recent trends and developments in the field is perusing the latest issues of relevant scientific journals. In the future, I plan to attend the seminars and other events that go on in CC&E, as well as the LSU Science Cafes.

Contact a subject librarian to book a research consultation and become familiar with the most frequently used library databases and information sources in your specific area of study.