A librarian, actually

by Kiely Fisher

I have a disappointing habit of downplaying the important work librarians do. Maybe it’s imposter syndrome or some failed attempt at humble bragging, but most of the time when I learn about an incredible thing that someone else has done or is working on, part of my response tends to be something flippant like “well, that’s impressive, I’m just a librarian.” This tendency recently backfired on me in the best possible way. 

I was in New York City for a choral performance. While riding the elevator down to street level after soundcheck, conversations naturally happened among longtime singer friends and new acquaintances. I don’t remember when or how, but the moment arose for me to brush off library work as if it’s not essential to our communities in every way that matters, with my typical “just a librarian” comment. The soprano standing next to me had what can only be described as a fangirl moment, or the closest thing to it that’s ever been directed at me because I’m a librarian. Her response went something like this: 

“Wait, you’re an actual librarian!? Like with a master’s degree? Are you facing challenges like schools are too? I wear my ‘read banned books’ t-shirt to the school drop-off line all the time.” And so on. 

As we exited the concert hall and walked toward 8th Avenue before parting ways, we had the most delightful conversation about what library school was like, the difference between all the different abbreviations for a master’s degree in library science (MLS, MSLS, MLIS, etc.), the many challenges libraries are facing from censorship efforts to funding uncertainties and more, as well as the even more numerous joys of public librarianship. She willingly let me rant on my “if you don’t like it, you don’t have to read it, but that doesn’t mean no one should” anti-book-banning soapbox. 

The entire interaction only took about 8 minutes from start to finish, but it was by far the most enthusiastic response I’ve ever received when discussing my journey into library land. It was vastly different from past reactions, like the friend who told me that pursuing a master’s degree in library science was a waste because libraries really aren’t going to last, and it wouldn’t be a good long-term career decision. 

It’s been twelve years since I ignored that ill-advised commentary and went to library school, and nine years since I graduated. I am proud to be an “actual” librarian in a field that is more relevant than ever and to be part of an organization that values community and collaboration while providing access to information, resources, technology, programs, people, and so much more. 

As author Caitlin Moran wrote, “A library […] is a cross between an emergency exit, a life-raft and a festival. They are cathedrals of the mind; hospitals of the soul; theme parks of the imagination. On a cold, rainy island, they are the only sheltered public spaces where you are not a consumer, but a citizen instead.”

Kiely Fisher is Eastern Regional Manager of the Adams County Library System.