Merete Christianson, MLIS, may be new to the University of Minnesota Health Sciences Libraries, but she brings a wealth of knowledge about health sciences librarianship. Merete has nearly a decade of experience at North Dakota State University (NDSU) where she worked as a librarian for pharmacy, nursing, public health, allied sciences, and exercise sciences.

At NDSU, Merete applied her skills with evidence-based practice, critical appraisal of resources, and open access publishing, among others. She also celebrated many accomplishments related to creating inclusive spaces (online, in-person, and around the community), and advancing policy, strategic planning, and assessment goals.

Another accomplishment of note was Merete’s work to expand library services. “I’m very proud of my work to add a branch library in Bismarck, ND to serve the nursing students at NDSU’s only distance campus,” remarked Merete. She added that it was her priority to provide equitable services to Bismark students and faculty.  “I was able to leverage online tools and tutorials, make regular visits, and hire staff for onsite services and programming.”

Although Merete has only been with the Health Sciences Libraries for a few months, she has already felt the benefits of being able to work with a team of librarians. “In my previous job, I was on my own as the only health sciences librarian,” she said. “Now I am surrounded by lots of really smart, really skilled people in the library and I’m excited to learn from them and collaborate with them.”  

Merete is finding it particularly rewarding to work with three librarians who align their work with the Medical School.  “Being part of a cohort of medical liaison librarians is very exciting!” said Merete. “We all have different work and educational backgrounds, and each of us brings unique ideas and perspectives to the table,” she added. “I’m excited to see where we go and what we can accomplish as a team.” 

Merete describes herself as someone who doesn’t take herself too seriously. She has many interests including travel, video games, and reading.  “I’m also a trivia nerd and would love to play pub trivia with anyone interested!” she shared. When you get a chance to meet Merete, be sure to ask her about her adventures exchanging postcards with people from around the world.