This is What a Librarian Looks Like by Kyle Cassidy

This is a book that must be read by all. It has great pictures of individuals who are librarians. It covers the history as well as the individual essays of real people and their experiences using the library.

A library is more than just a depository for books.  There is so much more to the position of librarian. It is a job that needs to be done and an obligation. Many great and not so great people have moved through the system.

One librarian at the New York public library has said “I like my job because I get to make a positive impact in people’s lives every day!”

As for the inclusion of the internet into the library system Tawnya Shaw of the Henderson District Public Libraries has point out “Over half of all Americans still do not have internet access at home… Libraries offer these services, and many more, for free. Parents can take their children for free story time or access free databases for homework. Job seekers can receive one- on-one training and free resume help”

The book also carries thoughts from various writers about how the libraries have influenced their profession.

A library can offer a place to hang out for children while their parents are busy working. They are safer than street corners.

And the librarian is a collection of knowledge and will happily assess you in seeking knowledge. They are approachable and eager to enter your world.

Cassidy spend lots of time putting together this book and it shows. It is a very uplifting book.

A librarian from St. Helena Public Library in California has said “finding information isn’t like that old saying, ‘finding a needle in a haystack.’ It’s more like finding a needle in a stack of needles…that’s where librarian can help.”

Finding a book that offers a positive outlook is like finding a jewel beyond price.  I think everyone should make sure their library carries a copy of this book and that it is kept in circulation.

The Public Library, a Photographic Essay by Robert Dawson

  

Libraries Are Important

   What can be said about libraries?  They are depositories of great and not so great books, both audio and written. They hold CDs and maps. They seem to be the first to go when a b udget cut is proposed.
    Without the library the intelligence of the public would suffer.
    Libraries are open to everyone no matter what your social economic level. Yes, even to the homeless and mental handicapped individuals. Even when they disrupt the running of the system.
     Robert Dawson has traveled around the country taking pictures of libraries They have been housed in small quarters and large quarters. There is even one in Death Valley in a trailer.
    Somehow they survive. People want libraries in their neighborhood. Some have even started loaning libraries in their own yards. Borrow a book and rep[lace it with another. Simple to make and l,ow cost.
    "A free public library is a revolutionary notion, and when people don't have free access to books,  then communities are like radios without batteries." someone has said.
   This volume has great photos of existing and closed library buildings throughout the nation. They have been housed in various abodes. They have even been housed in libraries on wheels for areas that can't  afford one of their own.
    The history of libraries goes far back in our history. Ben Franklin started one and the idea seems to have caught on. Some library buildings are ornate. Others are plan. But knowledge is there for those who will seek it.
    This book has a forward by Bill Moyers and an afterword by Ann Patchett. There are small insightful essays sprinkled in between photos to inform the public of the great history and impact
the free system of information has had on our intellectual growth.
    I highly recommend this book.