There is a massively undervalued and hidden secret of the Library.
This secret makes everything happen.
From programming, to ordering new books, to processing. None of this could happen without this best kept secret.
That secret…. is the Librarian.
I know. That was kind of obvious. But really. Patrons don’t realize the amazing resource they have when they come into the library.
Most people who come into employment at the library do not have a degree in library science but they are expected to have that and more! We’re expected to be a walking card catalog, a customer service representative, an event planner, and an artist. It’s a lot, but it’s amazing.
I absolutely love my job. I love that I get to interact with the public. I love that I get to talk about the library and help people realize how vibrant and important the library is. I get to help fight the decline of literacy! I love what I do and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
That being said, a lot of people in the current society of America do not fully value the library. In fact, there was a post written about how libraries were no longer needed due to Amazon bookstores. People were so enraged by this that the company was forced to take the article down!
The library is the forgotten part of the community. But where would we be without it? We know it’s there and we know it has value but we don’t take advantage of everything that goes on there.
When children are young, they spend their mornings at Storytime and in book clubs but eventually they seem to drift away. They stop coming in for books and they stop valuing the amazing resources available to them.
Did you know that most libraries have W2 forms available? Did you know that most libraries have resources about the GED? Did you know that most libraries get new books in every month? Did you know that most libraries are becoming more like community centers? Places for people to meet and be together? It’s a beautiful thing.
The library is important. The library has value. Do not forget this. Do not let yourself fall into the realm of people who stop frequenting the library. And to every librarian out there who also has to be a customer service rep, an artist, an event planner, and a walking card catalog- thank you. You are an important part of your community. You matter. Thank you for all that you do.
The Sparkling Librarian 