PLMI Day One--The Bigger Picture

The start of the Public Library Management Institute has finally arrived, and here we are at the beautiful Fall Creek Falls State Park to begin our three year journey together. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been accepted into this program, as being so new to the public library setting it will be an invaluable piece to my career portfolio. I have a diverse background that includes independent book retail, archaeology/architectural history, city planner, and manager/administrator. But, I have no background in running a public library. So, while I know a thing or two about working with local government and running large budgets, I lack a great deal of knowledge pertaining to the history and background information pertaining to the Tennessee public library system.

Day 1 has gotten off to a great start! Our class has spent a good deal of time participating in ice breakers and getting to know one another--most importantly sharing some horror stories about their experiences, making us realize that we are never alone in our library adventures. As someone brand new to this scene, that is a priceless comfort! We heard from Don Reynolds about some of the background and "big picture" items relating to the ALA and other organizations that in a sense form the backbone of what we do. It was very interesting to learn about the core values of librarianship and what we believe in. Perhaps most interesting is how similar those notions are to those found in the ABA (American Booksellers Association). I was quite proud to be a "militant and radical" bookseller and am even more proud to find that many of those same principles apply to my current role as a "militant and radical" librarian. Although nothing new, it was great to hear Lynette's presentation on the Regional Library System and the history it entails.

Something I keep thinking about is the idea of creating a balanced library with a balanced collection. I am absolutely all about free speech and the right to read, but living in a small, rural community presents issues in that area in many cases. So we are told to not inhibit the access to knowledge, but at the same time we must reflect the values and character of our communities--particularly considering that those are the people and groups that fund our libraries and the programs we may offer. It is most definitely a fine line to walk and a tight rope to balance and one wonders the best way to navigate these sometimes treacherous waters. Is there a best way?

My weak area also entails policy making--a topic that Don discussed at length. Unfortunately, my predecessor left on not-so-good terms, so my library and the staff I inherited did not come with an instruciton manual! In many cases it is completely unclear as to whether certain policies exist or have ever existed. So, I am thinking that maybe I will take the approach I have already begun and throw out the play book and start over in many cases. I prefer to take responsiblity for whatever I am in charge of, so my "restart button" approach has been successful so far and I have been able to begin anew and do things my way. However, writing library policy is not something I have expereince with, so I will be visiting my regional library for some help with that. I prefer to go to my board well informed and with a solid plan!