Case Study Librarianship

Name: Jane Cantwell
Job: City Librarian (www.waterfordcity.ie/library/)

My path to librarianship arose from an interest in the organisation and provision of information. It started with administrative and library work in law firms, requiring specialised skills, acquired on the job. For further career development, I needed a professional qualification and obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Library and Information Studies from UCD. This course provided an insight into the wide range of career options available for qualified librarians and, having looked at a number of options, I chose public libraries. 

There are no clearly defined personality traits contributing to the choice of librarianship as a career. Some useful attributes would be an inquisitive mind with the ability to think outside the box; good organisational and team working skills; good communications skills; a positive approach to customer service and an ongoing interest in learning and acquiring new skills.

As a city librarian, my working day is similar to many other managers, including meetings, report writing, budget management and HR issues. It is my job to ensure that the Library Service is meeting the needs of all sections of the community and to plan for developments of library infrastructure and services in Waterford City.

Public Libraries need public funding and must compete with other services. Librarians need to be aware of the ongoing changes to their services required by changing social circumstances and needs.

Why become a public librarian? The most important reason would be that you think it might suit you.  Working in a public library provides a good career path; a wide variety of work; an ability to use information skills across a wide range of services, including online and technical services.  The Library Association of Ireland provides support and an opportunity for ongoing professional development.