The island branch is a little smaller than you'd expect; but it is - basically - a satellite of the Main Library. In all actuality, I think of the St. Johns County Library as being this sprawling monstrosity that spans through several buildings all across the county. I've been to the Main Library, but I live on the island now, and so the Anastasia Island Branch is the one I frequent most often. Though not as often as I'd like.
In addition to the books, the books they can get from the other branches, there's Hoopla, and other online ways to access the library. They've got meeting rooms, internet access, and a handful of social programs - that might not actually BE social programs; but that's what they are. While perusing the SJCPL website, I was reading about their local art displays, workshops and children's programs, and about the Friends of the Library and volunteer programs. I'm not sure I'm ready for that, yet.
This is kind of a kick in the pants to get me to go back. I love the idea of the library. I'm not thrilled about the prospect of interacting with a bunch of strangers; but for the first 50 years of my life it wasn't a real problem. I need to get over it; and the library (even just the nearest branch) has a number of interesting programs or services I'd like to avail myself of.
I wish the library had longer hours. That's a stupid, selfish thing to say, especially considering that I just said I don't go as often as I'd like, or perhaps ought. I've been looking at places to go where I can sit and write - places that aren't in my room at home, or near a bed or television that can distract me. Places where I can't (or would feel self-conscious) playing video games, or eating. All the things that distract me from doing my job - I can get away from them at the Library. I need to go.
Add to that my need for reading more. I have a damn library card. I ought to be using it. And the library offers some interesting sounding programs: Book clubs, meditation, yoga, tech help. All of these sound fun, or at least interesting. And as much as I dread the notion of getting out of the house and facing people, I would love to get out of the house and meet people again.
Curiosity
- Is the library hiring at this time; or are you relying more on volunteers?
- Is the library only hiring Librarians; or do they still employ Library Assistants and others who don't have their Library and Information Science degrees?
- Is volunteering a reliable or good way to work toward acquiring such a job?
- Are there any programs the library doesn't offer that you'd like to see?
- Are there any programs the library does offer that you wish more people knew about or would attend?
- May I ask a few semi-personal questions about being a Librarian?
- What's the turnover like at SJCPL?
- Are you satisfied with your job? Has the position been fulfilling to you; or has it turned out to be different than you expected?
- How has working in a library changed while you've been on the job?
- May I ask what the job of Librarian / Library Assistant pays?
- What does it pay?
- May I ask a politically charged question?
- How have the government cutbacks and "cost-saving measures" affected this library in particular?
- What are librarians and others in the field discussing about the future of libraries?
- Are you worried?
