Types of Libraries

When I made the decision to go back to Syracuse University for my Master’s degree in Library and Information Science, family members and friends would ask, “What are going to do with that degree?” My automatic response was, “to be a librarian!” Often I was pressed to go into more detail, but I never had an exact answer; that was the whole point of going back to grad school – to figure out what path of librarianship I was interested in. Of course, I was determined to pick a degree that could lead to multiple career options after graduation. I didn’t want to be stuck on one specific path (I should note that I majored in music during my undergrad and having worked for the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra after graduation, you can now imagine my employment situation and fear of entering a field with little opportunities). I am optimistic about my new career path and excited about the different job opportunities that are available in the field of librarianship.

This week in IST 511 we discussed the different types of libraries – public, academic, school and special. It was the perfect lecture for 1^st year graduate students in the iSchool program, inviting everyone to think about the path they are most interested in. I am attracted to the idea of public librarianship. I love working for an organization that is valued and embraced by a community. When I worked for the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra, I enjoyed assisting with the community engagement initiatives and working with volunteers and members of the community that shared a love for the orchestra. I think public librarianship will provide similar opportunities that focus on patron relations and community outreach.  I also like the idea of academic libraries. I was a recent employee at Le Moyne College and the library supports a community of faculty members and students (a great community I would love to continue to be part of). I know I keep going back to the issue of community engagement and all types of libraries support a unique community. Whereas this issue will not necessarily help me find a specific career path, it will allow me to continue to explore the different options available in the field of librarianship.