I came across this post on the Criminal Law Library blog and found it to be very interesting. The author, David Badertscher, Principal Law Librarian of the New York State Supreme Court Criminal Term, First Judicial District, has created a list of characteristics that are essential to the long-term survival of libraries and librarians.
He states three objectives for the list:
Hopefully it will stimulate both thought and further action. With that in mind the list of characteristics can be used as a point of departure for further development. A second equally important objective is to convey to the reader reviewing the list a sense of the vital, irreplaceable role libraries and librarians can play in meeting the information requirements of an increasingly dynamic and competitive environment. Thirdly, I would hope to convey my basic optimism regarding the future of libraries and library systems, provided that measures such as those discussed above are implemented and maintained consistently over time.
The list is very comprehensive, and is a great starting point for librarians in evaluating themselves and their organization:
ACCESSIBILITY
Ability, right, or permission to approach, enter, speak with, or use; obtainable; approachability.
Accessibility of library directors, managers, department heads, and others as appropriate to decision makers and to meetings and other forums where policies and procedures related to libraries and library systems are being discussed and deliberated.
Accessibility of library collections in all formats, including digital, to library users.
Other, as appropriate
ANALYTICAL
Skill, aptitude, and motivation in the identification and detailed examination of components of systems, procedures, documents, organizations, or other entities and to infer meaning and communicate conclusions based on such examination..
Reports.
Studies
Evaluations (including evaluations of library collections)
Compilations (including bibliographies, development and continuing maintenance of library catalogues, indices)
Financial evaluation and analysis (includes financial planning – budgets)
Analysis related to strategic planning
Systems Analysis related to library applications and services
Other, as appropriate.
CREATIVITY
The ability to transcend traditional ideas, techniques, rules, approaches
Originality
Develop new, improved approaches to resolving challenges
Exploration of new and emerging developments as to their possible application to library applications and services.
Other, as appropriate
CURIOSITY
Desire, and drive, to learn and understand
Inquisitiveness
Urge and motivation to become more aware of ways to adapt libraries and librarianship to competitive, dynamic environments
Other, as appropriate
EMPATHY
Ability to vicariously experience experiences, feelings, thoughts, attitudes of others
Sharing
Collaboration
Outreach
Caring about and relating to other people
Other, as appropriate
FLEXIBILITY
Willing to adapt and adjust
Accepts and is reasonably comfortable with change
Willing to yield when appropriate
An important attribute in a rapidly changing library environment
Other, as appropriate.
LEADERSHIP
Ability to make things happen
Provide direction
Take initiative and assume risk
Strategic planning
Ability to ensure that quality of organization and service are maintained at a high level
Ability to persuade and articulate at a high level
Take lead in encouraging coordination, collaboration, and sharing as considered appropriate
Take lead in introducing new technologies as appropriate
Ability to say “no” when situation warrants
Other, as appropriate
PERSEVERANCE
Ability to stay the course and be steadfast in working toward objectives of the library, especially in difficult, challenging situations
Other, as appropriate
STABILITY
Includes all areas related to maintaining the integrirty of library records, including bibliographic records as well as financial and business records associated with the library
Cataloging, indexing, issues related to authentication of digital records and materials over time Preservation of materials and records over time
Maintain consistent and steady relationships with parent and other organizations as needed Maintain stable physical environment in library or library system
Other, as appropriate
RESOURCEFULNESS
Ability to deal skillfully with new or difficult situations
Ability to adapt quickly
Skillful in finding ways of doing more with less as situation warrants
Other, as appropriate
