Category

Library Profession

Humor, Library Profession
J. Edgar Hoover, Librarian?
February 17th, 2009 | Permalink | Comment?

Stephen Abram points out this post at Online Best Colleges.com that lists 25 Famous Librarians Who Changed History. According the introduction,

These important figures influenced and developed the library systems we use today, from the Dewey Decimal System to the subscription library and public libraries.

The list could cause a debate not only on who changed history, also on what is a librarian. Not to mention what defines a “career as a librarian.” J. Edgar Hoover worked at the Library of Congress as a “messenger, clerk, and cataloguer” while in night school at George Washington University. And while J. Edgar Hoover may have exerted influence on libraries, it isn’t because of his career as a librarian.

So, take a look at the list and add your 2 cents in the comments. Are these the librarians you would have put on a list like this?
Library Profession, Library Value, Tough Economic Times
Library profession builds the most important infrastructure: human capital
December 9th, 2008 | Permalink | Comment?

Elizabeth Meylor, Library Manager for HGA Architects and Engineers, sent an alert to the SLA MN listserv this morning: “This is an interesting commentary. The writer calls for a jobs program for “”human capital” infrastructure: teachers, social workers and LIBRARIANS, not just a program for building and construction infrastructure.”

“Where Are the New Jobs for Women?”
New York Times Commentary by Linda Hirschman
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/09/opinion/09hirshman.html?th&emc=th

Interestingly, libraries are referred to three times. Read the commentary for context and statistics. Here are the Hirschman quotes regarding libraries. What are your thoughts? Would a jobs program for human capital infrastructure, including libraries, capture your attention and support?

Libraries are closing or cutting back everywhere, while demand for their services, including their Internet connections, has risen. Philadelphia’s proposal last month to close 11 branches brought people into the street to protest.
…
In 2007, women were … 74 percent of education, training and library workers.
…
A public works program can provide needed economic stimulus and revive America’s concern for public property. The current proposal is simply too narrow. Women represent almost half the work force — not exactly a marginal special interest group. By adding a program for jobs in libraries, schools and children’s programs, the new administration can create jobs for them, too.