If there are two things Phanh Oudomlith knows, it’s books and business. As a Discipline Group Leader in the library, Phanh leads a team of research librarians supporting the Macquarie Business School with their needs for learning, teaching and research. He also provides broader leadership and guidance on bibliographic management, including software systems such as EndNote and Mendeley.

Having been at Macquarie for ‘38 short years’, as he calls it, we thought it was about time you met this friendly face.

1. In a nutshell, my job is to…
Provide expert advice and training to Macquarie Business School students in the use of Library resources, consult with academics to ensure that the resources required for teaching and research are available, and assist researchers with a wide range of research needs, including research metrics.

2. My definition of success is…
To make a difference in the community and in the workplace.

3. A person at Macquarie that inspires me is…
Distinguished Professor David Throsby. I have followed his work over many years and – as a librarian ­– I find his work on the economics of the Australian book industry particularly interesting. On a personal note, he is a great University colleague – kind, very thoughtful and always has time for staff and students.

4. This year I want to…
Find time to do some research on the impact of social media channels like Twitter on the usage of business resources.

5. The scariest thing I’ve ever done is…
Leaving my country of birth (Laos) to study abroad on my own.

6. As a kid, I was…
Told by my parents to work hard to succeed in life, and to always practice Dharma (the teachings of Buddha).

7. My guilty pleasure is…
Going for yum cha on Fridays – and taking as many colleagues as I can round up with me!

8. I’m scared of…
Issues relating to climate change that are not being properly discussed and managed.

9. I’m happiest when…
At work – when students are satisfied with my support in finding relevant resources for their research.
At home – when my family appreciates my cooking. One of my favourite dishes to make is salmon belly with ginger, shallot, coriander and basil.

10. The best thing about the Macquarie community is…
People’s friendliness, support and generosity.