Blogging Librarian

The list below was generated from two book discussions done by Michael Stephens’ MLIS class.

• Not afraid of change & technology
• User-centered focus
• Spot trends and market them!
• Plugged in & using new tools to communicate
• Be a Maven/be a Connector
• Listen to users
• Don’t judge interest
• Gather lots of input & diverse opinions
• Learn from Games-leadership, teamwork, and strategies
• Leave your comfort zone
• Remove barriers – too many roles
• Provide opportunities to flatten the world
• Communicate regularly with users
• PLAY
• Travel & learn
• Create networks for discussion
• Create change from the bottom up – and make CEO fulfill interests of User!

The list is a good starting point for anyone who’s interested in becoming a librarian as these are some of qualities required. “Loving to read” is no longer that important a reason for wanting to be a librarian. I think I said that when I interview for my job.

When I introduce myself as a librarian, some of them will usually comment that I must love reading. But I think the basic trait a librarian should have is that you must love helping people. This could be helping a user to find some information, a novel to read, or enjoyment in reading. If you don’t have this basic trait, then all the traits mentioned in the list above will be irrelevant.

What do you think?

Technorati Tags: librarians, library 2.0traits, traits