[Publib] What makes for a good/great librarian - an opinion from acurrent MLS student

[Rebecca Bronson]

Well said, Toccara!
Becki

Rebecca Bronson
Reference Librarian
Handley Regional Library
P.O. Box 1300
Stephens City, VA  22655

540-869-9000 (voice)
540-869-9001 (fax)

www.hrl.lib.state.va.us

  -----Original Message-----
  From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org
[mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org]On Behalf Of toccara porter
  Sent: Friday, June 01, 2007 8:16 PM
  To: publib at webjunction.org
  Subject: [Publib] What makes for a good/great librarian - an opinion from
acurrent MLS student


  Wendi and others,

  Given my personal goals in librarianship, I too have pondered the question
of how can I become one of the greats in the profession.  Truth is, it
depends on which area of focus you are pursing.  For instance, the qualities
of a good reference librarian (searching, communication skills, working w/
the public, etc.) vs. the qualities of a good cataloger or web librarian
will differ.  Within your area of focus learn what those are.

  Another way of looking at success as a librarian are your co-workers
and/or classmates.  You may share positions with these individuals, but how
often are your work habits, methods of organization, logic, etc. the same?
Yes, you may end up at the same destination, but more likely than not each
person has their own route to that destination.

  My suggestions for you as you set your sights toward becoming a great
librarian:

  1. Be observant.  Sometimes listening is the greatest asset that will aid
you in librarianship.

  2. Don't be afraid to be a mentor, even if you have no library work
experience.  How did you get to where you are now?  You weren't randomly
selected off the street to be a library student or an employee at the
library you work.  Through applications, interviews, work ethic,
recommendations, or other, put you in this position....and that my friend,
demonstrates that someone can learn a great deal from you as a result.  You
have something to offer.

  3. Enjoy your work.  It all comes down to the fact that yes, there are
stresses and many other mundane things about working in any library
setting...but the question is would you trade it at the end of the day?  If
your answer is No, then there is no limit to how great you can be.

  4. Last, believe in yourself even when others do not.  There will be
failed interviews, workers or employers who do not appreciate your value,
but don't let that discourage you.  Because one of the best things about
librarianship is there is always another opportunity to get things
right--that next patron to help, that next assignment, that next job
interview.

  Hope that helps,

  Toccara Porter
  Kent State Graduate Library Student
  CSS- Columbus Metropolitan Library



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