It’s been one of those days. The Twitterverse and all my networks have been buzzing with the news that the ABC is proposing to axe its librarians and archivists.
I’m tired. A bit fed up, if I’m honest. I’ve been trying to write my response to Kathryn’s prompt: “What is the most important thing to teach new librarians?” and today I think I should just scratch everything I’ve already written and just say that new librarians need to understand that they’ve joined a profession that is undervalued, misunderstood, and stereotyped – often subject to being dismissed and patronised by members of other professions who seem to hold stereotyped or outdated views about the work librarians do. Too negative? Steph said it better.
Even those of us who’re fortunate enough to work in organisations or communities where the library is valued, have to put up with misunderstandings and condescension and sometimes not being treated with respect by colleagues. It’s tiring.
What should we be doing?
“It’s not personal. Don’t let it get to you.”
“Don’t tell them that our work is valuable – SHOW them.”
“Organise, advocate, get a seat at the table.”
“Keep doing the good work.”
“Support each other.”
Yep. It’s tiring, though.
One Comment
Sorry to hear you are being tired out.
I note that they are hiring content curators to teach some skills – so it may be that librarians just get new names (with undoubtedly less pay).
Hope you get some positive energy to recharge yourself asap.