[Publib] Downgrading the profession

[Steve Benson]

A full-time reference experience provides opportunity for more training in a
short period than anyone would get from a MLS classroom experience.  Reference
skills are something that can be taught.  Customer service skills are more a
part of one's personality and less teachable.  I don't think prior bookstore
employment necessarily translates into essential library skills but it
likely shows evidence of customer service skills.



My take on professional positions is that I want administrative and
supervisory staff to have a MLS in my organization.  It shows they likely
have a necessary understanding of the philosophies and history of our
profession.  They have a vision of the bigger picture that is essential in
strategizing and planning.  For front line professionals I want an
outstanding customer service ethic, a diversity of backgrounds and subject
interests.  A MLS wouldn't be a requirement [as it is now].  Oversight from
supervisors and training maintain professional standards and guidance
towards service objectives.  Some our best employees are non-MLS "Library
Assistants" who function in many of the same roles as our Librarians.   My
city offers tuition reimbursement for any degree program - not necessarily
related to ones job.  I'd prefer we hire the best in customer service, train
them, encourage them to attain the professional degree, and anyone who would
come to us with a MLS or attain one in the course of their employment be
given a significant boost in pay.  Frankly I think we'd see little change in
the numbers of MLS librarians in our employ but we'd have a larger pool to
select from for professional positions.



Steve Benson, MLS, MPA
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