The Seattle Books Examiner took an informal poll and asked librarians from around the country what they love about their jobs. What they found was no surprise to us: dealing with patrons is "the best part of a librarian's day. We all have our favorites, (just don't ask us to name names, it wouldn't be fair. But if you frequent your local library, it could be you). These are the patrons who make our job a little more enjoyable, who make us look forward to coming to work everyday to help people."
Then they asked these librarians what they wish patrons knew or did before they came into the library. Some of my favorite answers are below:
1. Use us! We might be in a recession, but don't let the current economic crisis keep you and your family from having fun. Attend library programs, check out new DVD's, CD's, and best sellers, and use the free computer access.
2. Let your librarian know what materials you'd like to see on the shelf. Librarians feed off patron recommendations. We really try to buy what you like to read, watch, and listen to. If you find that we don't have a particular title you need, don't be shy about asking us to purchase it. We don't always buy everything patrons ask for, but we do tend to buy most. If we can't buy it, we'll try to find you another copy or request it from Inter-Library Loan (ILL) from another library.
3. Tell us what you like. This goes for item #2, but also for items we've already bought for the library. If you like the puzzles or the new mystery books, or a particular program, tell us so that we can keep doing it. If you don't like something, tell us that too. It's the only way we can make changes.
4. Be respectful of other library patrons whether in line, at the computer stations, or during library programs.
5. Do not leave your child (or children) unattended -- for their safety. Please keep a close eye on your kids as you use the library.
6. Ask us what we read. It's in our job description to be avid readers. We're supposed to give recommendations to our patrons. Plus we love to talk about books. Please ask us what we're reading or what you should read next. Who knows, you could wind up with a new favorite author.
7. We support Intellectual Freedom. We believe that it is the parent's or guardian's responsibility to monitor what their children take out of the library.
And I'll add my own: Tell your local elected officials how the library helps you and why funding it is vital for our community. The is one of the best things you can do to keep the library system growing.
To see the full article, go to
http://www.examiner.com/x-1361-Seattle-Books-Examiner~y2008m11d18-Top-20-things-librarians-wish-patrons-knew-part-1
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