A patron came to the desk looking for a number of articles out of a textbook. She explained that she had been looking for over three hours, yet had no returns. To her surprise, our staff located the correct articles within minutes and instructed her in finding more.
We as Reference librarians DO offer an AMAZING service. Many patrons think the D.I.Y. method is sufficient, but I could read a number of Pharmacy books, yet still not have the training to safely administer medicines to the public. My point is this: Library Science is indeed that, a Science. There are many sub-disciplines that contribute to our success and most (if not all) of us have received rigorous training by book and on-site experience.
By saying this, Reference librarians and other library workers deserve public support and gratitude, and more than anything the admission that we bring something unique to the table -- something not just anyone is qualified to do.
We as Reference librarians DO offer an AMAZING service. Many patrons think the D.I.Y. method is sufficient, but I could read a number of Pharmacy books, yet still not have the training to safely administer medicines to the public. My point is this: Library Science is indeed that, a Science. There are many sub-disciplines that contribute to our success and most (if not all) of us have received rigorous training by book and on-site experience.
By saying this, Reference librarians and other library workers deserve public support and gratitude, and more than anything the admission that we bring something unique to the table -- something not just anyone is qualified to do.
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