« More from a professional librarian | Main | Devon MP's get involved »
June 21, 2006
The professional librarian
My correspondent continues to make observations that are so obviously true, but emphatically powerful for being said by an experienced professional
"Our remote management are well protected from the public. It is very difficult for Joe public to make a complaint to them unless he is a very forceful, persistent person or a crank (we've had those and they have had very comprehensive responses from the Chief). Most complaints stop at the front line where policy is quoted to quell their needs.
There is still the gulf between prof and non-prof staff in library services and although most of our staff in libraries are well educated people with lots of experience, the senior staff really aren't interested in what we have to say. There's a lot of talking done at meetings but no action plan at the end of it. I've been to user-group meetings about our library mgt system to discuss and improve the circulation system in the branches. Some important points are raised and verbally addressed but months later nothing has changed.
David Lammy's recommendations always include the involvement of the libraries in their local communities but the prof staff continue to assume remote roles. It occurs to me that as well as library staff some middle mgt are frustrated with the limitations of their remit and may respond to CILIP if approached by the Executive."
Posted by Perkins at June 21, 2006 11:27 AM