The Changing Role of Librarians - Posting for 6/1/07

The job of librarians today goes beyond the checking out, checking in, and shelving of books. Librarians now must have a basic knowledge of computers. This is because the card catalogue is not on the computer, and patrons request help with the computers in the library. Librarians must now have the knowledge to access online databases to assist patrons a long with finding books for the patron.
In addition to needing to know about online databases, librarians need to know about the latest technology that is constantly changing. Patrons expect librarians to know how to access information on the Internet and how to download music. These changes require training for librarians, particularly those who have been in libraries for a long time (prior to computerization).
Librarians also need to understand that more and more students look to the computer (Internet) not only for entertainment, but for information for reports. Perhaps the biggest change that librarians have to accept is that students come into the library to access the Internet (MySpace) instead of coming in to read and check out books.
Another change for librarians is that registration for library cards, checking books in and out is all computerized. In some libraries, patrons can register for a library card online. Patrons can renew and request books from home or work through the Internet. Some libraries are even offering self check out.
Even though much of the traditional role of a librarian has changed, librarians and libraries are a necessary component of society. Librarians should not be afraid that their jobs are going to be replaced by computers because there is always a need for human intervention in serving the public. Librarians have to come to accept that books, magazines, and newspapers are not the only source of media that patrons are interested in or expect libraries (librarians) to offer.