Are You a “Real” Librarian?
July 28th, 2006Jennifer responds to the MLS discussion (Sorry about the long quote, it was just dead on):
“Often times, people who hold an MLS find it very difficult to accept ones without an MLS in professional librarian positions. I can certainly understand - and even sympathize - with their point of view. They worked hard to get their degree, many have spent a good deal of money for ite and worked hard to get their job. I’m sure there are many other reasons as well. Regardless of being able to understand their point of view, it is an attitude with which it is often very difficult to deal. Often when you meet librarians at conferences, workshops, etc., they ask right away where you work, what you do and inevitably where did you get your MLS. When you mention that you don’t have an MLS, they often ask why, are you thinking of getting it, you should consider going to such and such. There are even some that really do not want to deal with you once they discover that you do not possess the degree. Fortunately, I have only encountered this attitude a couple of times (and really look forward to not ever having to deal with it again when I complete my degree).”
“Sadly, people with this attitude are missing the fact that the best person for the job is the best person for the job regardless of educational attainment or experience. In my case, somebody (who has an MLS) thought I was the right person for my current job despite my lack of MLS. I can’t or shouldn’t allow others to undermine my belief that I am good at my job or that I deserve it.”
I once met a woman who had been teaching students Hebrew and Jewish culture for decades. She was heading up a class for Hallie and her little friends. Before she began her class, she introduced herself as a librarian, as she worked at a local community Jewish library. After the class, I asked her where she got her MLS. She replied that she didn’t go to library school. I then whispered into Barbie’s ear, “She’s not a real librarian”.
What a shmoe I was, thinking that she wasn’t a librarian. Of course she was. She taught an amazing class to Hallie and the other kids, networked well with the parents, and rocked my world with her enthusiasm. If I ever see her again (chances are that I will), I will apologize for being an ignorant shmoe, even if she didn’t know what I said. I will never do that again.
How about we get off our pedestals and embrace everyone who wants to do good for libraries and library services. How about we separate ourselves from others because of our abilities and not because we happened to get a piece of paper to hang on our walls.
I don’t regret going to library school. I met some amazing colleagues, smart professors, and am not in debt (Queens College baby - CUNY!) up to my eyeballs. But, was it necessary? Probably not.