"I received the fundamentals of my education in school, but that was not enough. My real education, the superstructure, the details, the true architecture, I got out of the public library. For an impoverished child whose family could not afford to buy books, the library was the open door to wonder and achievement, and I can never be sufficiently grateful that I had the wit to charge through that door and make the most of it. Now, when I read constantly about the way in which library funds are being cut and cut, I can only think that the door is closing and that American society has found one more way to destroy itself." - Isaac Asimov in his autobiography "I, Asimov"
Understanding the need is only part of the equation. The 21st century librarian must also fulfill that need. The other job the 21st century librarian must accomplish is to properly advocate for the patron by advocating for the library itself. A college library might realize that a student needs a certain type of engineering manual but cannot pay the exorbitant costs. A public library might find out that their children's books need a lot of new additions. Librarians are to advocate for the library as an institution. This is not a call to only appeal for money to purchase materials and to keep the library open. What a 21st century librarian must do is convince the populace of the importance of the library. If the general population understands the importance of the library and how their fellow citizens are uplifted and educated by its offerings, the place of the library in the 21st century is somewhat ensured.
The 21st century librarian is not only a librarian. We must abandon this image of the librarian as a simple, humble entity. We often mention that librarians are also technology specialists, experts on childrens' education, compassionate companions, and even community leaders. But we forget that librarians must also become defenders of liberty.
Wait a minute... isn't that a job for the likes of Dan Daly and Guy Gabaldon? Not so! Continue reading...