hi this may be an unusual ask but, in less than a month i am likely going to be promoted into a different department. i'll be working in a library branch as a book shelver or something similar. i wanted to know if you i guess, have any tips for working in a library? sorry if this is vague im just curious, i saw that youre a reference librarian so i thought youd have some??
I sort of like how vague it is?
20 Random Tips for Library Survival:
It really does matter where the books go. If it’s not where it’s supposed to be on shelf, in rough sort, or on display, it doesn’t exist.
Be very wary of the “no fines for library employees” rule. 98% of us can’t handle that kind of responsibility.
Do whatever the director says. Drop everything for them.
Patrons will assume that because you work in a library you know everything about it. It is your job to pass these questions off to the correct authority.
Understand how to use the catalog. Someone has to.
Children are always right.
Befriend your tech support.
Befriend whichever librarian is in charge of ordering materials for your favorite collection. They’ll order almost anything you want (so long as it’s new and moderately priced).
If you stare blankly and smile at a patron long enough, they’ll stop telling you their racist theory about the economy.
It’s really hard to push 50lb book carts in high heels when you only weigh 108lbs.
Fill displays whenever you can.
Beware the phrase “we’ve always done it this way.”
Wear gloves when working with children’s books or cookbooks.
Always feed the reference librarian.
Reader’s advisory is everyone’s job. Be prepared to talk about books, movies, or music that you love.
Never judge anyone on their tastes. Every book has its reader and every reader their book. It’s not up to you to decide what’s good and what’s bad.
Speak softly around technical services workers. They spook easily.
Keep a parka in your locker. You’ll need it.
2087
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