ASSOCIATES (vol. 4, no. 1, July 1997) - associates.ucr.edu
When Kendall, our esteemed chief editor, informed me that it was my turn to do an editorial, I admit to cringing and thinking how much nicer it would be to be in Bora Bora at this time of the year. However, this type of thinking reminded me of the tone of several threads that we've seen in Libsup List-serv recently. Which leads me to my topic--we need to start giving ourselves a real pat on the back. Lately, we've heard all too often the things we don't have or can't do. So it seems timely to get just a little more positive about our life as members of library staffs. What do I mean? Well....let's go with some of the ideas we've all heard. And, in fairness, let's see if we can give ourselves at least a little credit (hey...if we don't, many other people won't either!). To begin--how many of our happy group have done the MLS-envy routine? GIVE YOURSELF A PAT ON THE BACK IF: you've remembered that you must have some type of education--or you couldn't read the library materials you're working with (or...horrors! you wouldn't be able to read the priceless prose you're looking at this minute). Many people can't read--and wish they could. Many of our group have excellent educations--some have degrees. You ARE part of a smart group! Have you wondered--what's the point to the job because nobody notices? GIVE YOURSELF A PAT ON THE BACK IF: you've stopped to realize that you are making important social contributions by helping patrons or students obtain information that could change their knowledge and their outlook on the world. Many people wish they had a job so obviously valuable to society. You ARE part of a socially conscious group! Have you wondered why you have to make that long drive, ride, etc. so many days a week? GIVE YOURSELF A PAT ON THE BACK IF: you've realized that you have the ability and discipline to get out and do something important--no matter what the distance, no matter what the hour. Many people wish they could get out and go somewhere--but aren't able to. You ARE part of a group of a mobile, active group! Have you wondered if anybody else is going through the same job trials and tribulations as you? GIVE YOURSELF A PAT ON THE BACK IF: you've subscribed to ASSOCIATES, if you've joined our list- serv, if you've become a member of the various support staff groups--both local and national. Many people in various occupations feel alone and powerless. You ARE part of a group that is vital to the progress of the library world. Have you wondered if your job in Public Services has special benefits for you? GIVE YOURSELF A PAT ON THE BACK IF: you've realized that you have learned valuable lessons about dealing with people and about your ability to act in a professional public manner. Many people wish they could be looked up to as an authority. You ARE a source of wisdom and information. Have you wondered if your job in Technical Services has special benefits for you? GIVE YOURSELF A PAT ON THE BACK IF: you've realized that your cataloging, repairs, or any of the other technical skills you employ provide needed materials for current and future patrons. Many people would like to make a difference to others in the years to come. You ARE a benefactor to your whole region. By now, I suspect you're beginning to remember some of the reasons why you're a part of our group. Maybe others don't appreciate you--or maybe they just forget to tell or show you that they do. But try to remember that you are part of a group that does know what you're going through. You're part of a world-wide group that is making a profound contribution to all of us. GIVE YOURSELF A PAT ON THE BACK! YOU DESERVE IT! Bob Farnsworth