/r/librarians

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For public, academic, special, and prospective librarians discussing librarianship, library management, information science and any topic relevant to this profession.

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Discussion Job Advice Degrees/Education Monthly Thread

/r/librarians

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4

Don't know if I want to pursue a career as librarian, please share advice :)

I'm currently in high school and have to begin thinking about my career and I don't know whether or not being a librarian is a good idea. I like the idea of a librarian because, from what I understand, it's about completing a lot of tasks around the place, planning stuff, and is generally a peaceful (am I right?) environment. I would love to help people and make their lives easier. I'm also extremely introverted and would love a more independent and quit job, which being a librarian gives me the impression of. (This applies to being an archivist as well.)

However, I'm scared. Scared about the job security and financial needs. Like, is this a safe career to pursue? Will I be guaranteed a job or am I likely to struggle with employment? Will I be able to pay off my debts as a lower middle class student? Do I need an MLIS?? I'm so afraid that I'll make my life difficult by pursuing this! I don't want to take risks – I want a safe path to take that will assure a decent life for me (I don't care about being rich and I'm not materialistic whatsoever, but I want enough to not have to worry about money.)

Can someone please share their story, how you got to be a librarian, how long it took, and how you're doing? This would mean the absolute world to me, thanks :)

8 Comments
2024/11/29
01:56 UTC

4

Considering career change from social work

Hi y’all! So I am looking into getting my Masters in library science and have quite a few questions I would love if anyone could help me out with!

Quick backstory, I have had a growing obsession with public libraries for the past several years from getting back into reading and being an avid personal user of the library as well as through some work with Public Libraries in my job. I am just blown away but the depth and breadth of resources libraries make available and just seeing honestly the gold standard of making public spaces and resources truly accessible and welcoming to all.

Anyway as I have solidly decided on the need for a career change and have considered different option, the idea of working libraries has been the only think that is truly getting me excited and giving me the motivation to take steps forward, but I do have some concerns and also just some general questions!

First, I’m really concerned about the pay and job prospects, the starting salary for librarians near me is significantly below what I currently make as a senior manager in my organization and especially after investing in a masters program in a little worried about making it work financially. I haven’t seen many job postings for administrator type roles but I’m wondering with a good amount of experience in program management and leadership in non-profit, is there a reasonable chance of me getting directly into a a higher paying role or moving into one fairly quickly? Are these roles difficult to find? I hate that this has to be my primary concern but it’s hard to give up the relative financial security I’ve worked hard to get to.

Second, ideally I’d love to have the option of remote and hybrid work at some point, I’d honestly rather work on site in a library first but how good are the chances that this would be open to me at some point in my career? I am considering a concentration in data science or database management which I assume might help in that arena. Are there some concentrations that might give me a better shot in moving into that direction eventually?

Lastly, for masters programs, I have ADHD and made it made it by the skin of my teeth through my BSW. A big problem for me was writing papers, but I never had a problem with testing or more practical types of assignments and I’m wondering what the coursework typically looks like in a library science program? Are there any online degree programs that folks have done that might put a little less emphasis on academic writing or generally be more neurodivergent friendly?

And I guess any other advice or thoughts or experience from others who made a shift from social services to libraries?

32 Comments
2024/11/29
16:01 UTC

66

as a patron who loves the library, how can I help?

I didn’t realize that libraries had gotten so challenging to work in since COVID until I saw a comment in a post and found this sub, but it makes sense, as everyone in general seems more irritable, more belligerent, and less patient.

I love the library and reading, and I’m so grateful to have used library resources from time to time when my internet has gone out or I’ve needed to print something. I love reading ebooks with Libby and checking out cookbooks when I want to try new things. I loved renting video games during COVID when I was bored and wanted something new to play. The library is such an incredible resource and we are so lucky to have it.

How can I, as a citizen, make libraries a better, safer place for librarians and library staff to work? I know it probably entails political involvement, but what specifically will make the most impact?

20 Comments
2024/11/28
05:43 UTC

7

A/V archivist asking for help

Hi all,

Imagine you are trained as an audiovisual archivist and working in an institution that has asked you to do both av archiving needs and other archiving activities. Now say that same institution is limited on budget and asking you to catalogue a rather large collection of books - mainly dealing with art and art history (including pamphlets from various exhibitions). The intent is for this to be a research library in the future.

How would you go about approaching this? I’m aware of standards - the Library of Congress classification - but never actually gone about using it in a practical sense.

Any advice, resources, thoughts, would be very much welcomed!

Thanks

5 Comments
2024/11/28
23:44 UTC

0

Probably will be a librarian. What’s my road ahead?

I posted here a week-ish ago explaining I was heavily considering being a librarian. By now, I can’t say I’m 100% sure, I’d say I’m 90% sure. And the post was more just asking advice in general, and I got really helpful responses. I was just hoping I could ask more specific questions and get more advice since everyone was helpful.

For quick context, I’m F21 and the next semester is my last semester. I’m getting my bachelors in history which I adore.

I’m aware that I need a masters in library science before I even touch a job application, so I just have a few questions that I would love to hear your personal stories or opinion:

  1. I have no colleges near me that offer a masters and I probably will have to do it online. Is that common?

  2. People who got their masters online, what was that like? Which program did you pick and why?

  3. General cost and time period it takes to get a masters

  4. What is a quick summary of what I will learn? Did you find the curriculum worth while? What kind of assignments were given?

  5. What is the application process like? How did you find employment?

Thank you! Any advice in general is also appreciated.

7 Comments
2024/11/28
22:06 UTC

1

How to Increase my Chances for Upward Mobility in a Public Library? (MLIS Expected End of Spring 2025)

I am a little over a month into my new part-time Library Technical Assistant I job at a city library and I am thinking about my long-term future here.

The staff are great and from what I've heard and seen, it's more common than not for staff to move up internally.

I'll also be obtaining my MLIS at the end of Spring quarter 2025.

Is there any way to increase my likelihood of working my way up the ladder or is it just a matter of waiting between degree obtainment and being at the whims of funding and staff turnover plus me being in a library job for x number of years?

So far, I've taken advantage of any little opportunity to learn something from my co-workers (who are happy to explain/share), but I'm not sure how to learn program planning and budgeting in this context when it isn't in my class to do these things. Sadly, we outsource our cataloging.

I'm also worried I'm being "too" helpful and may come off annoying eventually. I am so quick to help with anything, but in the past at other jobs, some have found that threatening. And since I miss social cues at times, I am trying very very hard not to let that jeopardize this amazing new job.

What do y'all think?

5 Comments
2024/11/28
02:45 UTC

3

Valdosta State - MLIS fees

Hello!

I was wondering -- for anyone who is or has attended the online VSU MLIS program, are there any other fees besides $300 per credit hour + $442 "Online Learning Fee" per semester + Textbooks/Learning Supplements? I had asked someone at the bursar's office, and they said no, but I'm wondering if that's really correct. Thanks, and Happy Thanksgiving!

1 Comment
2024/11/28
00:11 UTC

1

What are we doing instead of pop up libraries now? How do you manage them?

I am in a new position in an academic library. My director wants something library related outside of the library. I have considered tabling at events and fairs, borrowing display space in other buildings to post information on databases and citations etc, and being a pop up librarian in different campus buildings to answer reference questions. Im not a super creative person. What other things are people doing to bring their library services outside the library walls?

The director prefers something like a free book exchange library but I'd only be able to stock it with discard books. Idk how to make this happen in an exciting way. I'm great at in library displays but this is really throwing me for a loop. I'm supposed to be promoting our collection but I'm not sure how to make that happen if I can't leave any of the collection in another building unattended! Im trying to make a good impression and not shoot this idea down, so any ideas on making this work would be so appreciated.

1 Comment
2024/11/27
22:15 UTC

26

How often do you deal with difficult patrons?

Hi all! I’m an MLIS graduate who has been working in a non-traditional information management type role for the past decade but would really like to try to get back into libraries. Whether this will be achievable or not is another story…

My one hesitation is the fact that I would need to deal with difficult patrons from time to time. I’ve been thinking about trying to find work at our local public library or in an academic library (I have another masters degree).

I don’t know if I’m exactly an introvert - as I’ve gotten older I’ve been better at making small talk with people I don’t know, and I’m actually longing to get out from behind my desk and talk to people in person. However I don’t always deal well with people yelling at me for instance. In my current role I work remotely and even though I sometimes have difficult situations it’s mostly over email and I have time to think about my responses to tough situations.

If you work in a traditional library setting, is this something that comes up frequently in your work and does it get easier to deal with over time?

29 Comments
2024/11/27
16:54 UTC

1

Community Lending Library Checkout Systems Question

Hi there,

Not a librarian myself but thought you all might be able to help. I'm starting a community lending library at my church focusing on topics that are important to us: ecological justice and literacy, liberation theology, spiritual formation, things like that. It'll be available to folks who are regulars in the community.

I'm curious what you all might suggest as far as a lending system. Could it be as simple as just having a sign-in sheet with folks' contact information required? Is there another simple way you might suggest?

Thank you!

1 Comment
2024/11/27
22:29 UTC

0

Considering Career Change

I am currently an early childhood teacher and have been in the classroom for 13 years and am certified in New York State to teach birth-2nd grade. After some research, I have found that to get a school library certificate I would need 12 library credits and to take a certification exam. I have a bachelors in English and close to a masters in Literature. I have always thought about becoming a librarian and now that I am leaving the early childhood classroom I am thinking it could be a good next move.

My question is, what is day to day like as a school librarian? Is it worth it to enroll in the full MLS program or just take the credits I need to be certified? What are the job prospects?

3 Comments
2024/11/27
19:03 UTC

1

I want to suggest an idea for teens but

I'm not sure how well it will go over. I want to have an event for teens that coach them on real world skills, like applying for financial aid, making a budget, writing resumes, how to be a strong interview candidate. Things like that. I learned a lot from adults around me about some of that, but struggled and floundered worth other parts. Is that even something worth bringing up? What's a good way of presenting it to my manager? Thank you!

BTW I got the office assistant I job lol

0 Comments
2024/11/26
20:46 UTC

3

Should I use Alma on a resume?

Hi!! I currently am an undergraduate and I’m working on my resume. I’ve worked at my college library for 3 years and have used Alma (ILS). Is this something I should put as a skill on my resume or no? Thanks!

5 Comments
2024/11/26
19:11 UTC

1

Philippine LIS graduate looking for a job in Australia

I'm 23, Graduated with a Bachelor of Library and Information Science & working for well over a year. I've been thinking about working overseas. Seeing the job advice posts here, It seems very competitive.

What is the process of getting a library job in Australia as a PH librarian/overseas worker? Is it possible? Thank you.

0 Comments
2024/11/26
19:05 UTC

1

Switching from Adult to Youth Librarian?

I am in an odd position right now. I’ve been working as part-time assistant librarian for adult/teen services for a year. One of the youth librarians is leaving, so there will be an opening for full time youth services librarian.

Its very unlikely I will ever get a chance for a full time librarian job at my current library otherwise as it seems they can’t create a new position so it would require one of the adult librarians leaving (and I’m guessing it would have to be one of the full time ones, not a part time one), and I don’t really have the leeway to stay and wait for that. Conversely, I imagine I would be very likely to get the youth librarian position as an internal hire with an MLIS who’s been here a year.

However I do not have training or experience working with children, at all, beyond the times I’ve interacted with them in other library positions (which has happened a few times but I wouldn’t say I’ve been great at it. I’ve been woefully ineffective dealing with youth aged kids who come to the teen space and break the rules, at least). Its a shift from my intended field, which I’m not completely opposed to conceptually, but it isn’t something I know I could do very well, and I do have time and leeway to search for adult librarian jobs (although I am aware this is not a remote guarantee for success given how long it took to get this part time job in the first place).

So I am looking for insight about the feasibility of the jump from librarians with some experience.

0 Comments
2024/11/26
18:44 UTC

1

If you could go anywhere for your MLIS...

Where would you go? I am basically unlimited in my options other than schools that accept VRE (military) benefits. It will be fully covered by veteran's benefits.

I'm located in New England and have a library willing to do an internship with me so a program that allows for that would be great! I'm open to online or in-person in the MA, NH, ME area and will be finished the WMCC library technology certificate as a sort of preparatory course. I'm looking for a program that will provide courses that will actually prep me for library work and be interesting.

I'm looking to do public librarianship or a program geared toward information/cyber since I am a systems engineer currently, so that would build on those skills. And let me know your favorite classes to take so I can be on the lookout.

0 Comments
2024/11/26
16:56 UTC

1

Help deciding between two positions

Hi all,

I have been working in the reference dept. of a public library while I completed my MLIS. The last few months, I was filling in as interim section head of that dept.

I knew the head of circulation job would be opening up right around when I finished my degree. I planned to apply for that and had the support of admin.

I just found out that they will be needing a permanent new head of reference. The position will be open simultaneously with the head of circ position next month, which is when I graduatw. My admin said I can have my pick between the two.

Now, I'm torn. On the one hand, I could get experience in a new dept and have a fresh start. On the other hand, I'm very comfortable with the reference work and already have ideas for expanding our programs and services.

Pay/benefits would be identical. I feel very lucky to have these two options but am a little overwhelmed by the choice. Which would you pick?

3 Comments
2024/11/26
16:51 UTC

1

Collection Development: Tactics, Strategies, Vision

For those responsible for collection development, I'm curious how you go about things.

Do you have any great tactics to address immediate needs?

What about strategies to balance the collection, address weaknesses, or build upon strengths?

Do you find it helpful to have a vision for the collection? What is yours?

I'm in my first year (at this institution, not in libraries altogether) and the collection is doing fine. Still, I always find it helpful to think about the big picture!

TLDR: how do you manage short, medium, and long-term goals for your library's collections?

0 Comments
2024/11/26
13:30 UTC

1

I have a panel interview soon.

Has anyone had a panel in for this field. Any tips or ideas what may be said. The job is just a for a clerk. I have no experience but am starting school next spring.

1 Comment
2024/11/25
15:48 UTC

1

Letter of intent help first paragraph

After much consideration I’ve decided to apply to a masters of library. And I have been reading so many posts here that say not to mention that you love books. But I’m having a really hard time at that, this is my latest draft of a first paragraph, and I tried to keep it to one sentence. Is it still too much? Background Graduated 2 years ago Worked at my uni’s library Worked at a public library for 3 months. Want to go for academic librarianship but I’m open to all possibilities as my opinions might change during the program

Growing up in Brazil I romanticized libraries because i loved to read but I didn’t have access to one- as most cities won’t have a branch due to lack of funding. It was not until I came to Canada that I was able to fully comprehend the extend of the work being done by libraries. By working as a library assistant I was able to see first hand all the ways libraries are essential to a society, from being a safe haven for people that currently don’t have a home to offering sensory kits to autistic people, libraries touch so many lives. I also believe that in a post pandemic society, libraries often act as a third space which is harder to find each day

0 Comments
2024/11/25
16:17 UTC

4

What are my chances of finding public library work if I pursue and complete my MLIS in 2-4 years?

Hi

I've been considering pursuing a MLIS as I love books and have been working in a public library for 4 years providing a range of information and circulation services. I just have no upward movement without an MLIS. I'm very passionate in customer service and have ideas about how to incorporate programs and resources to connect community, specifically with newcomers and migrants.

For context I'm in my early 30's, in Canada, am a guy and I can speak more than one language. I've been told that my ability to speak multiple languages as well as being a guy will make it much easier to find work after completion.

My main concern / hesitation about pursuing a MLIS is with finding stable work. I don't know what the job market will look like by the time I'm done my masters, whether librarians are still used in the same way, or that there will still be opportunities for MLIS librarians or if they'll be replaced by students or otherwise.

Of course it's too hard to predict the future but does anyone have an idea of where public libraries are headed or if there are trends? I'm just trying to determine if it's worth pursuing an MLIS. People I know and speak to are confident that it shouldn't be too hard and the work shouldn't change too dramatically. I want to try and complete it sooner rather than later to ensure that I can look for and get into a job quicker. I'm just concerned that the longer it would take me to finish, the less chance I have of finding work.

Anyone have any thoughts about this?

20 Comments
2024/11/25
21:23 UTC

0

Job Posting: Communications specialist/advisor (remote, part-time, well-paid)

A company serving Public Libraries in North America is seeking a person closely familiar with Public Libraries' internal workings, needs, requirements, and communication channels.

The role can cover all or any of the following: researching, consulting, working on marketing strategy, messaging, communications.

It's a remote, part-time position.

Please DM me for details.

4 Comments
2024/11/26
09:40 UTC

0

Would an English Master’s Work?

I’ve been attending Full Sail University for a while and I’m set to graduate in February/March of next year. I’ll be getting my Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing.

As I’m nearly done with my current degree, I’ve been thinking about which school I want to get my master’s degree at, because I want to be a librarian who works for the city (not in schools).

From the research I’ve done, Library Science and Information Science degrees would be my best bet. I’ve found the Texas Women’s University that offers a degree in Library Science, which would be a good option.

However, I’ve also always wanted to attend Texas A&M University since both of my parents got their degrees there. A&M doesn’t have either of those degrees and only has a degree plan for a Master’s in English. Is there anyone who knows whether this Master’s would work for my plan?

9 Comments
2024/11/24
15:31 UTC

1

What are the best materials or books on Library and Information Science for NET/SET?

Hellow everyone, I am a student of MLIS and I am also preparing for NET/SET and KVS exams, therefore looking for a quality book or e materials on library science .

6 Comments
2024/11/24
10:09 UTC

15

Looking for High School Librarians to Interview About Banned Books

Hello!

I’m working on a project in my college class about banned books and would love to hear from high school librarians who have experience or insights on the topic. If you’re willing to help, I’d love to do a short interview with you in whatever format works best for you (Zoom, phone, email, etc.). The interview would be around 6-7 questions.

I’m flexible with timing and super grateful for any time you can spare. Please let me know if you’re interested!

Thank you so much! 😊

2 Comments
2024/11/23
19:40 UTC

1

What does CILIP do for the profession? Are they any good at what they do? Do Charterships have much value? Is there a demand for them?

How much does CILIP do for the library profession?

They seem a bit pointless from my experience and Charterships from them don't seem to be valued that much.

Would be good if the organisation were more prominent and effective.

1 Comment
2024/11/23
04:34 UTC

1

Working public will hurt my chances at landing an academic gig?

Sup bookworms, So I have been a part time reference and instruction librarian in an academic library for a year now. Just finished school and needs to go full time.

Been applying all over. I had an interview in a public library and the director was really cool and no nonsense (genuinely enjoyed this). He asked me if I had any concerns that taking a job in a public library would hurt my chances of working in academic libraries.

I did! I know that academic libraries tend to think poorly of public librarians. It's a fact that I find to be straight up dumdum after working with academic librarians for a year.

I wanted to hear your takes! I have a full time children's librarian interview coming up but ultimately would rather stay in academic. Will public librarianship hurt my chances of ending up in academic libraries in the future? I need a full time gig for money and insurance.

7 Comments
2024/11/23
14:15 UTC

1

Clamp for Book Spine Work - Feedback Requested

Hello everyone. I am a volunteer at my local library. The past couple weeks I've been tasked with labeling, taping, and stamping some full shelves of new books. For each book, this requires me to hold (pinch) it vertically between my knees so I can use both hands to carefully align the labels on the spine.

I'm a creative person and woodworker. I've had ideas for ways to improve this process but I haven't been able to find any actual products that exist. I need a wide vertical clamp. I'm pretty sure I'll be making mine out of wood. It will be coated with a gloss layer to protect it and it will have cloth on the inside of the clamp to keep it from damaging any book covers. One side will be fixed and the other side will be the sliding part. I need to figure out the adjustable sliding mechanism for different size books. Maybe a short drawer slide?

Because you Librarians have more experience with the subject I'm discussing, what do you think of this idea? Does the tool already exist somewhere? Can you think of any suggestions for my idea to make it more versatile? Thank you for your feedback!

Here is a link to the quick sketch I did of my idea: https://ibb.co/4gzDW0k

3 Comments
2024/11/23
08:48 UTC

7

Academic libraries adding ebook MARC records to ILS

Hi all. I recently started a new position that involves managing the ILS of a small college. I found out yesterday that my predecessor had deleted all of the ebook records (various vendors) from the ILS (Horizon). That seems weird to me, but I’ve never managed an ILS alone before. I know sometimes the records can be unreliable depending on the service, but all of our ebooks aside from those from Gale databases are single use copies we selected.

Am I wrong? Is it better to just have student access ebooks through the individual vendor links or the discovery layer?

3 Comments
2024/11/23
01:35 UTC

1

Taking over as director and feeling like I’ve already failed.

Hello! First time poster here. I am stepping into the director role at my library. It’s a small independent library with 4 employees including the director. I am replacing a very charismatic and well-loved individual. The transition is moving along. I’d say we’re about 60% through. This week, both of the other librarians quit. I have been wracking my brain to figure out what I’ve done to cause this. I have been working on a schedule but so much has been in flux and while I’m in training I have also been training a new hire meant to replace me. But even one of them citing that has me baffled because I had not touched that particular librarian’s schedule. I’ve just been trying to integrate the new hire.

I know I need to work on my leadership skills. I knew this would be a hurdle for me. I even spoke with the two leaving about this and felt they were understanding especially considering we’ve worked as a team together for 6 years. Those around me are chalking it up to them just not wanting to work for anyone but the previous director but I’m feeling like I’m failing before I’ve even had a chance to get started.

Any advice for a new director struggling with imposter syndrome?

2 Comments
2024/11/22
23:04 UTC

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