I’m the Beastie Boys

We all get frustrated with work, right? Yesterday I had to vent it on Twitter:
Remind me again why I thought becoming a Tech Librarian was a good idea? Sometimes I think I’m a professional joke.
I got some great responses. Sometimes the best way to get some perspective, I suppose, is to ask for it. And the thoughts of people NOT in the profession are invaluable.

This from a woman with whom I went to high school and to whom I have not spoken in over ten years:
Sarah: Think of what you do as an art – i wonder if libraries will cease to exist – tragic on many levels but if books are available on the Kindle ( might have wrong nic nac name ) But if the book is fading out – what about their home? Please don’t be angry i think your profession is awesome… but surely its come up – NPR talk radio did a huge segment on the topic and left me sad I love too read a book a week sometimes I get books on tape- huge fan of the not having to alphabetize – bane of my existence
Lichen: Hi Sarah. Thanks for your thoughts! Honestly, I don’t believe Libraries are about books, they are about community and freedom.
You’re right that the way people read is changing and Libraries have got to keep up with that change. Some are, some are not. It’s hard to know what needs to be done to save them, and encounter only resistance from my colleagues.
Sarah: how so? i think i get the freedom part and local community it enriches by its presence as do museums- resistance how?
Lichen: Some librarians do not like change. Most of them refuse to see that the way people collect information is changing.
Lichen: They just stick their heads in the mud and resent anyone who points it out.
That person would be me.
Sarah: Pioneers you are- like beastie boys were to rap music-
Lichen: YAY! I’m a Beastie Boy!

From another friend via Facebook:
Because in 5 years you will be the only one that still has a job at a library?

And from my fella who often works with librarians:
Lichen, you’re a librarian, in a public library. Your job is the definition of uphill battle. It’s hard work and red tape and low pay and no respect from anyone about how hard it is but it’s a great service that you’re doing….

So it is all worth it, in the end. Here’s to hoping the discouraging days are few and the friends are true.