I think Tracey is right, it is amazing how many people still think that
being a librarian is just a matter of stamping & reshelving books, saying
ssssh when it is needed and basic clerical work. Having just interviewed for
student library assistants to start work in the library this term, I was
shocked and amazed at their perception of what a librarian actually does and
doesn't do!
I have been in post for just over 6 years and I am only now reeping some
reward for constantly re-enforcing my professional status and the role of
the library within the organisation. I have just been asked to sit on the
Academic board which is a good sign (no voting rights though). After harping
on about professional standards of service and implementing them as fast as
a solo is able I believe people are finally getting an idea of why a
qualified librarian is a must rather than an unneccessary expenditure.
If we don't each make an effort within our organisations to re-enforce our
professional role no one else will...lets face it if you are doing your job
well it should look effortless and organisations quite often forget why you
are essential, so it is important to keep reminding them...gently!
Sue - I agree with what you say (my original rant was aimed at someone
else's rather tackless comments which were posted as a response to your
email!). This down grading within the public library sector seems to be
becoming more common - is it happening in other sectors as well? I would be
interested to know...
Sam
-----Original Message-----
From: Tracey West [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 09 January 2004 10:35
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Looking for a job?
> I honestly believe that if the issue of
>competitive remuneration is not addressed by all parties - Information
>workers, employers and CILIP, then a lot of skilled and dedicated
>individuals will be lost from the profession.
A couple of years ago at a chartership event in Aberdeen a discussion arose
about the fact that some employers do not value and/or understand what
being a chartered librarian means. It was suggested that CILIP could run
workshops (or some other sort of campaign) for employers to explain what it
meant. This could be adapted to explain what a professional qualification
means as well.
I think we also need to address the fact that most people are not aware
that you need a degree to be a librarian. I'll never forget going to the
bank for a loan and when I said it was to finish my studies the person
commented "You need a degree to be a librarian?". After all employers come
from the general population too!
------------
Tracey West
Information Assistant
Medical Library
[log in to unmask]
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