With our new interview series, Faces of the Library, we're highlighting some of the dedicated people, employees, librarians, and specialists who make our library an essential resource for students and faculty. Discover their insights, learn about their recommended tools, and see how they can support your academic journey.
In our interview, we met Majela Guzmán, a Research Librarian. Learn more about her and her expertise!
Tell us more about you and your role at the Library.
My name is Majela Guzman and I’m a research librarian at the Faculty of Social Sciences. I’ve been at the University of Ottawa since 2019. My role at the University is to support students, faculty, and researchers by helping them navigate the vast resources available through the University library and many other platforms. I offer them guidance on finding books, articles, and other research materials, ensuring that they have access to the information they need. I also provide training on specific software and platforms essential for research.
Why do you love working at the Library?
Working at the Library allows me to connect with students and faculty in a meaningful way. Every day, I get to help people discover new ideas, find the resources they need, and develop the skills that will empower them in their academic and professional lives. It’s a privilege to be there for them! The library is more than just a place for books—it's a hub of learning, collaboration, and exploration. Being a part of that process and knowing that I’m making a difference in someone’s research journey, is incredibly rewarding. Plus, I’m constantly learning new things myself, which keeps my work exciting and fulfilling.
With Artificial Intelligence and easy access to digital resources, what unique value do you bring to the research process that technology alone cannot?
Librarians add unique value to the research process. We critically assess information and teach students to do the same. By guiding them through resources, we ensure they use credible and relevant sources. We understand users' needs and we help them refine their questions and strategies. We also advocate for the ethical use of AI and make sure students understand its challenges. While technology offers access, librarians bring the essential human touch of guidance and critical thinking that AI can't replace.
What resources or databases do you find particularly useful for undergraduate and graduate research?
When guiding students in their research, I always recommend starting with our library catalog, which offers access to a very wide range of resources. Using the databases is important too, and students should become familiar with the most relevant ones for their field. The research guides are there to help with this. I encourage them to check the guides whenever they’re working on an assignment or new research. The library offers access to over 5.9 million individual titles in all formats, 957 databases and 300 research guides. How amazing is this!
What’s one thing you want students to know?
One thing I want students to know is that research is a deeply creative and personal process. I encourage students to infuse their work with critical reflection and a personalized approach. Don’t just gather sources—interact with them, question them, and weave your own perspective into your analysis. This not only enriches their work but also makes the research process more meaningful and gratifying.
What's your favorite Book or author?
My favorite book is A Hundred Years of Solitude by the Colombian Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel García Márquez. This family saga has left a mark on generations of readers around the world. The power of magical realism which blends the ordinary with the extraordinary, brings the characters and their world to life. I’ve read the book three times already, and I am sure I won’t stop at three because every time I read it, I discover it in a new way. It’s a story that continues to inspire me.
“The library is more than just a place for books—it's a hub of learning, collaboration, and exploration.”
Majela Guzmán
— Research Librarian
Contact
Feel free to ask your questions at [email protected]. You can also check my research guide for more resources about Political studies, Economics, Public and International Affairs...