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Member Spotlight: Joni Sherman
Welcome to the new monthly posting, Member Spotlight. Each month we will be interviewing one of our VALL members.
To kick this off, I am beginning with myself, the VALL Webmaster, Joni Sherman.
For the last 10 years I have been employed at the Department of Justice as a Legal Research Library Technician. This is a Federal Government agency employing approximately 2500 lawyers. We deliver services through a mix of co-located departmental legal service units, specialized branches that are located across Canada.
I have had the privilege of being on the VALL Executive for the last 7 years working with Programs and now with the VALL Website.
I sat down with myself and answered a few questions:
Business & Resources
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What excites or energizes you at work?
I get energized when I am helping people. I love finding that obscure piece of legislation or caselaw that can really assist with my client’s file. As well, I deeply enjoy instructing people on the “how to use” and the “where to find” all the different library resources which will make the Library patron’s work more efficient.
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Do you have a new (or old) favourite resource tools?
My favourite resource tool is new and it is a BOOK.
Our collection just acquired a new book called, Researching legislative intent : a practical guide / Susan Barker and Erica Anderson. Irwin Law 2019. As soon as this book came in the door, even before it was catalogued and put into our collection, I used it to help me with a research question. This resource is well written and very approachable. I cannot recommend this book enough.
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What is one thing you’re learning now, and why is it important?
French. I am just finishing off my third round of French lessons. Not only is great for my brain but I feel more connected to my French speaking colleagues in Montreal and Ottawa because I am finding that I able to understand them with greater ease.
Up front and Personal
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Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I am pretty much a “professional’ pierogi maker. I have mastered the dough and love thinking of unique (but simple) fillings. I really love cooking and, in particular, when it involves many people making AND eating. Making pierogis is the perfect dish to make this happen.
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What is one hobby you’d love to get into?
A hobby that I would LOVE to get into is fencing. Not only is a great workout but it appeals to me because I am a very visual person. I am drawn to the aesthetics of fencing, from the uniforms to the names of the swords: foil, epee, sabre (common crossword words, too).
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