[Publib] Arguing Technology

[Lorie J. O'Donnell]

Hi Carl~

I agree completely.  I was certainly not denigrating modern  
technology.  I am all for modern technology; it makes life  
immeasurably easier. (And fun, on occasion, too.)  I was merely  
stating that technology is not what makes me a librarian. Doing the  
job is what makes me a librarian.  I think one of the most valuable  
assets we can have is adaptability.

I know librarians who shut down when the power (or just the internet)  
is off, completely unable to function.  And I know a few who are  
steadfastly dragging their feet as if through thick mud in resistance  
to new ways.  Neither way is helpful to the profession or to the patron.

Lorie
(who is wondering how you knew I always wanted to be a race car  
driver *grin*)


On Feb 5, 2009, at 9:40 AM, Carl Long wrote:

> Yes, you're still a librarian when the power goes out. Just like  
> you're still a race car driver if your race car is in the shop or  
> partially disabled. But I fail to see how denigrating or attempting  
> to trivialize modern information technology helps the profession or  
> helps the patron? I would argue that the best path is to see both  
> the strengths and weakness of any given library resource and use  
> them aptly and appropriately.
>

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Lorie J. O'Donnell, MLS
Chief Librarian for Children's Services

Jervis Public Library
613 N. Washington St.
Rome, NY   13440

315-336-4570 ext. 226