I'm a Librarian!

I had forgotten how I liked to write. I've spent a good part of my life journaling and always find that putting thoughts and emotions into concrete words on paper (or screen) helps tremendously. 

I haven't forgotten how I love to read. 

That, and having a mother who was a librarian lead me to become a librarian as a 2nd act career. And I love it! 

After some health issues and burnout on teaching, I found a part time job at a library working for a former co-worker. One thing led to another and I am now the Head Librarian at a branch of our city library system.

If you haven't been to a library lately, I think you'll be surprised at how much things have changed and how much things are still the same. We still have books and children's programs and helpful librarians. We still welcome anyone and everyone. We still offer materials for people of all beliefs, ideologies, and political positions. 

Now we also offer libraries of things - like tools and camping gear and toys. We have a makerspace (trendy term for lots of cool equipment that helps you create things from your ideas) which contains laser cutters, vinyl printers, t-shirt presses, sewing machines, 3D printers and so on. We also have programs for adults and teens and tweens. We teach genealogy, have crafting programs, watch movies, and have exhibits. It is a really fun place. 

You may not realize what librarians do and don't do these days. We don't read books all day. We don't say "shhhh" very much  (I've only said "shhhh" one or two times in the five years I've been there). We do teach computer skills, help patrons log into their email, help folks apply for jobs and programs, assist them in printing and faxing and scanning, and provide notary services. We listen to lonely older folks, encourage young parents, and connect families and children. We teach families and children about gardening, nature, science, being creative, and of course reading. We help tweens and teens have a safe place to hang out. The job of a librarian is all that and so much more. 

And I love it!