Reflections on Assigned Reading-The Portable MLIS Chapter 1

Chapter 1--Stepping Back and Looking Forward: Reflections on the Foundations of Libraries and Librarianship was written by Professor Richard Rubin and it begins "Libraries are not important, they are essential." (p.3) It seems to me, however, that the same could have also been said about "librarians." The people who make up these institutions are also essential. As one who is preparing for a new career as a librarian, I was keenly interested in the author's comments and observations about the people employed in a library setting. I read his words with a critical eye toward the role I might play in this new career.

Much of the 1st chapter describes the changing role of the librarian over time. I'm a history buff and found his chronology of the library through the ages to be insightful and helpful. As a former Bostonian, I was especially interested in Rubin's comments about the Boston Public Library. He noted that with the establishment of the BPL in the 1850's, the role of the librarian became to "serve the common man," (p.9) a credo that has remained "constant" to modern times. The author also states, "Modern American libraries are quintessentially noble establishment; their primary role is the serve the public." (p.11) The public is all of us. This notion of service (helping others) is appealing to me as I contemplate a major career change. I've spent my entire career working in the field of education (which certainly can be considered a noble profession) and am reassured that the work I will do as a librarian will continue to fill this vital societal need.

On a more personal note, Chapter 1 was the first "academic" (textbook) reading I have done in a long (long) time. I am still not entirely sure what I am getting into as I venture forward as a School Media Specialist student at Syracuse University. However, I found Professor Rubin's introduction to the profession to be informative, reassuring, and exciting.

References:
Rubin, Richard E. (2008). Chapter 1, Stepping Back and Looking Forward: Reflections on the Foundations of Libraries and Librarianship. Found in The Portable MLIS: Insights from the Experts by Ken Haycock & Brooke E. Sheldon (Eds.), Libraries Unlimited, Westport, Connecticut.