Text Liesbeth Mantel
It happens to me all the time. When I tell people about my work (I’m Project Manager of innovative projects) they react very enthusiastic. Whether this is because of my infectious energy (I like my work very much and love to tell about it) or because of the projects I manage (Transformation to Library Learning Centre, Mobile) I have no idea.
If I then tell people that I work in a library they look at me with staring eyes. Suddenly I’m less interesting. Of course it’s hard to imagine how a library can be so modern. The image of a library is still dusty and dull. An image that libraries all over the world never seems to get rid of.
How bad is that? This morning, while biking, I decided it’s not that bad. Libraries should just be used. A building where it’s crowded and cozy, where students, visitors and employees like to be. That succeeded. When I entered the library hal all the tables where occupied. There is a cozy atmosphere. I even think about changing my workplace behind the blue wall for a place in the hall. This place and the crowd gives me energy.
So it could be possible you see me in the library with my laptop and mobile phone (accessible all the time) Would you like to have a cup of coffee and talk about your work, study, library, or anything else you would like to share? Don’t hesitate to approach me. You can also this online. Online I call myself Moqub and in real life (IRL) Liesbeth. I’m looking forward to spontaneous meetings.
Follow Moqub on Twitter
I agree that status of a librarian is not pritty high. Sad and true. As long as libraries are not living centres with a lot to offer (not only scientific information but also some cultural events, etc.) they will be treated more like museums.
Thanks Ela! That’s why we tell our stories, we are proud being a librarian and love to tell what we do to be more than a great collection.
I have been thinking about status of a librarian in today’s world for some time. I am more and more convinced that certain jobs attract people with certain type of character. If today’s libraries are modern and are sth more than “only” collections and those working at are knowledgeable, well-educated, friendly, good-looking people why is the status of the job still not as high as it deserve to be? Maybe the reason lies in ouerselves – in our character or that we not well enough make people realise how our job is complex and useful. Or maybe this is simply due to the fact that todays’s world value those who perform profitable jobs and all our efforts to change the status are in vain?