Being a librarian

[simsfreq]

Is it worth training to be a librarian or are libraries going to be gone in a few years?

[andy-hughes]

Don't worry, libraries will be around for a good few yers yet.

With all new technologies, there is the 'death knoll' of existing methods of communcation. Remember - video was going to be the 'death' of cinema, which has higher audiences now than since the war.

Computers and e-mail were going to render ofices 'paperless' - when again, more mail is sent than ever before.

What really happens when the doom-and-gloomers have calme down, is that each new invention is assimilated into our cutlreu, and takes its place alongside the existing media, so libraries may well evolve, but the written word is certainly safe for the forseeable future.

[simsfreq]

Thankyou!

[andy-hughes]

You are most welcome.

[vehelpfulguy]

I think libraries will evolve over the next years, but they will be around.

I went into my local library the other day and there were about 20 people sitting using the computers (which are free).

They also have a large section for local history research with maps and old books and guides to help people research the history of the area or their family history.

They also rent out DVDs and music CDs and have a section with newspapers and magazines.

They are not just rows of books any more.

[gammaray]

I was in Bolton Library last year in their reference section researching some of my family tree. The librarians I encountered were some of the most knowledgebable people I have come across. They really knew their stuff, and were so keen to help.

[shazbang]

Anyone know how you become a librarian?

[simsfreq]

You either do a full librarians degree or a post-graduate. You could work as a library assistant without that. In fact they generally ask for about one years worth of experience before you can do a degree.

[paddy_36]

I don't think it's compulsory to have library experience before undertaking a course, but it can be very helpful.

There are also para-professional qualifications (NC, HNC) available if you don't want to do a degree or postgrad. This would allow you to get up to the level of Senior Library Assistant, or Library Supervisor as it is sometimes known.

If you go into public library work, be prepared for the occasional librarian who is still in the dark ages. I have a boss who starts to twitch when the words 'google' and 'wikipedia' are mentioned.

[Hgrove]

Years ago I started an undergraduate library degree but gave up when I realised that (a) the uni was phasing it out and (b) it was poorly regarded within the profession. Contact CILIP (Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, formerly the Library Association) for a list of postgraduate degrees they accredit. You can become a library assistant with NVQs. Unfortunately it is a very poorly paid profession. Librarians do not just work in public libraries. They work in academic libraries/law firms/House of Lords/Inns of Court/large management consultancies/construction companies. Picture librarians work in the media I believe. I have a friend who has been a librarian for a City law firm for many years, and he kept telling me NOT to become a librarian.