Column Description: We've read about the book bans, the violent threats to library staff, and communities defunding their libraries. Sometimes it can feel like no one knows what we do or why we do it, so it's no wonder we're all feeling a little burnt out. Libraries are not what they used to be, but that doesn't have to mean for the worse! Let's talk about it.
Since I began working in libraries, I’ve heard the same thing hundreds of times: Libraries aren’t what they used to be. This is typically said with a negative undertone, one that hints at begrudging the changes that have happened in the last twenty or so years since most libraries began making the switch to the digital sphere. While print materials have not gone out of fashion – I don’t predict that will happen soon – there has been a notable shift in patron behavior, needs, and interests. More patrons are borrowing digital materials, they’re capable of finding their next read on their own (or are peer pressured by BookTok into reading the next viral title), and they want us to offer fun and educational programs for all ages.
Still, every time I talk about my profession with non-library workers, I invariably hear, “I haven’t been to a library in years!” These years-long lapses are not only disheartening, but can exacerbate the outdated understanding of what libraries do for communities. Most people I talk to about libraries still hold this image of a shushing librarian in their heads. Many think everyone who works in a library is a librarian, and they are shocked to learn we often need a master’s degree to become a librarian. Many think all we offer are books and DVDs. Even my husband, who has only known me as a library employee, is surprised when I tell him that our local library could purchase that expensive book he’s on the fence about ordering or has a program for first-time home-buyers, or provides free access to language learning apps. Sometimes I want to shake their shoulders and scream, “Libraries are not what they used to be!” Instead, I tell them about my job, our Library of Things catalog, our video games, our programs, our community puzzles, meeting spaces, laptop loans, and free Wi-Fi. All the things. We are The Everything Place.
9, 2024. Anna Maria Varney is currently serving as a Graduate Assistant for the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security at the University at Albany’s College of Emergency Preparedness while earning her degree to become a Certified School Library Media Specialist. In her current role, Anna does research, reviews communications, and supports the department in various marketing projects. Before that, she headed the Account Management department at Overit, a local marketing and advertising agency, where she oversaw all client marketing plans and communication. Anna is very interested in becoming more involved in NYLA’s advocacy and educational activities and joined NYLA in January 2024 for this very reason. We are thrilled to have Anna joining us at NYLA and in the field of librarianship. This is also the first paid internship NYLA has offered to my knowledge, and we’re hoping Anna gets as much out of this experience as we do. She’ll be working part-time at the office from May through November and will be joining us at all NYLA events, so be sure to introduce yourselves and give her a big library land welcome.
Column Description: Some words of wisdom from those more wise than me about gaining confidence when talking to people who break your rules. 
April 2024: FLS Update
