My Top 3: Work From Home Projects

Some things are easier away from the office

My Top 3 is a weekly post where I count down three things I love in a random category. This week, we’re looking my top three work from home projects.

As a librarian, there are times when it is important for me to go to the office. COVID closures showed the essentialness of in-person reference service. It’s basically impossible to offer successful tech support over Zoom. It’s also so much easier to read body language and hear vocal cues for understanding. When our library reopened, I got misty eyed with happiness during my first desk shift. I didn’t know it was possible to miss a physical location so much.

That said, not all of my job needs to be done in-person. In fact, outside of instruction and reference services, the rest of it can be done remotely. Thankfully, I have the privilege of a hybrid and flex schedule. Now that I’m used to this “new normal,” I’ve found the right balance for my work. The “feel” of home is different. There’s a different vibe of productivity. Plus, I can’t be called over to help someone unexpectedly. Fewer interruptions means more focused time. These days, I save certain projects for home because remote work makes it easier to get them done.