Before you become a librarian, some things to keep in mind.

Summary

In this video, Peter reflects on the realities of librarianship, offering insights for those considering a career in the field. He discusses the importance of caring for people over books, the challenges faced by new librarians in securing stable employment, and the value (or lack thereof) of an MLIS degree. He also addresses the systemic issues within the profession, including vocational awe and the need for reform. Peter encourages prospective librarians to stay grounded, set boundaries, and explore non-librarian career paths, stressing that the profession may not always offer the fulfillment people expect.

Takeaways

• 😀 Libraries are about people, not books: Librarianship is focused on helping people access information, not just being surrounded by books.
• 😀 Love for books is not enough: If you love books, consider other careers like archiving or bookselling, as librarianship is more about service to people.
• 😀 Vocational awe is real: The profession can lead to unnecessary self-sacrifice in the name of a 'higher calling,' and it impacts job satisfaction.
• 😀 Expect a challenging job market: New librarians often face part-time, casual, or short-term employment without benefits like healthcare or paid time off.
• 😀 Librarianship is systemic: Many of the challenges in librarianship are rooted in long-standing systemic issues within the profession.
• 😀 The MLIS is what you make of it: While the MLIS is expensive, its value depends on how much effort you put into it and how you apply it in your career.
• 😀 Practical experience is key: Seek out opportunities like research assistantships, student government, or teaching roles to make the most of your MLIS.
• 😀 The cost of an MLIS is a major issue: Many people feel the cost of the degree isn’t justified by the job opportunities and job satisfaction in librarianship.
• 😀 You don’t have to be a librarian: An MLIS opens doors to various careers outside of traditional librarianship, which may offer better pay and job satisfaction.
• 😀 Recognize your own worth: If librarianship doesn’t meet your expectations or respect your value, it’s okay to explore other career paths.
• 😀 Self-care is important: Setting boundaries and advocating for better working conditions helps ensure a healthier and more sustainable career in librarianship.

Q & A

What is the primary misconception people have about librarianship?

Many people think librarianship is all about being surrounded by books. However, it is actually about helping people access information and supporting them in finding meaningful connections to knowledge.

Why is it problematic to want to become a librarian just because you love books?

Librarianship is about serving people and connecting them with information, not just about working with books. If your primary motivation is the environment of books, you might be better suited for other professions like archivist or bookseller, where working with books is the main focus.

What is vocational awe, and why is it important for aspiring librarians to understand it?

Vocational awe refers to the perception of librarianship as a noble, higher calling that encourages self-sacrifice. Understanding this concept is important because it helps prevent the unnecessary sacrifice of personal well-being in the name of the profession.

What are some of the common job market challenges that new librarians face?

New librarians often find themselves in part-time or short-term positions, with few benefits like healthcare or paid time off. This is a systemic issue in the field, where many librarians struggle to secure stable, full-time roles after completing their education.

How can aspiring librarians maximize the value of their MLIS degree?

To get the most out of an MLIS degree, students should engage in opportunities outside of the classroom, such as research, internships, student government, or teaching. These experiences can provide valuable skills and help shape their professional growth.

What does Peter mean by 'Librarianship won’t love you back'?

This phrase highlights the reality that librarianship, as a profession, often doesn't offer the recognition, stability, or support that new librarians expect, despite their dedication to serving others.

Why does Peter believe it’s important for library workers to set clear boundaries between personal and professional lives?

Setting boundaries helps combat the culture of vocational awe, which can push librarians to sacrifice their personal well-being for the job. Clear boundaries encourage a healthier work-life balance and help promote systemic change toward a more humane profession.

What advice does Peter offer to those considering a career change after earning an MLIS degree?

Peter emphasizes that it’s okay to reconsider a career in librarianship if it no longer aligns with your passions or if you’re dissatisfied with the job market. An MLIS opens up many career doors beyond librarianship, so it’s important to explore other options if needed.

How does Peter suggest aspiring librarians deal with the systemic issues in the profession?

Peter suggests understanding the systemic challenges, such as job instability, and advocating for change. This can include pushing for better working conditions, supporting others who set boundaries, and striving for transformational reforms in the profession.

What role does the cost of an MLIS degree play in the decision to pursue librarianship?

The high cost of an MLIS degree can be a significant barrier for many people considering librarianship. Peter acknowledges that while the degree is valuable, the cost is often not justified by the salary and job market realities, and he calls for organizations like the ALA to address this issue.