Theft in libraries… (@#$%)

I don’t want to have one of those libraries where the walls are covered in warning signs… Theives operate, Don’t leave your belongings unattended etc… But tell me what do we do. We constantly remind students to keep a watchful eye on their stuff.

There is a misconception by many of our punters that it is safe to leave personal belongings unattended. Unfortunately in the last couple of weeks one of our students lost a large sum of money and a laptop was also stolen.

It irks me that a social and community haven like a library is abused by a few. The theft here was brazen. The laptop was sitting next to the student at the time. Unfortunately we librarians tend to be reactive in these situations and we start to get the urge to want to lock things away.

We have security cameras and they will be reviewed by the appropriate people and hopefully the culprit will be captured. I wont let it destroy my trust but I am annoyed that I have to deal with this kind of behaviour. It certainly put a dampener on the day. Thankfully it doesn’t happen very often. But I feel for the students who has lost their work.

Peace out

I get the Primaries now…

As a Librarian I should have curiosity about about politics but I have always been quite apathetic. I tend to be left leaning as many are in education. In my youth I used to say I was an anarchist (well it was cool to when you were a punk) but I have since realised that some rules are necessary. I am a librarian for goodness sake.

But I do think we all should stand up and be proud that we live in a country where we can vote and can get involved in the democratic process. We are very fortunate.

In my short life I have discovered that human nature being what it is you can’t always rely on people to be altruistic. But I like to think the best of people and although I don’t always agree with the decisions made by our politicians I think they are a necessary evil. Bit like marketing.

Why am I talking about politics on this fine autumn day? I am going to publicly announce that I have discovered West Wing.

I know I am late to the fold. Yes - I have finally moved beyond my penchant for science fiction and comedy to the grown up world of the White House. It is intelligent and engaging television. I am addicted! I have added it to my growing list of obsessions… Facebook, Dr Who…etc.

After watching Series 6 I now understand what is going on with the primaries in the US and how hard it must be for the Democrats without a clear front runner for the nomination. The characters are complex - their drives, personal lives etc…. captivating.

It has made me consider that librarians actually have a terrific opportunity to get involved in national agendas and have their say. One of ALIA’s roles is advocacy. It is worth having a look at the issues that ALIA is taking an active role in.

However, there are other ways to stand up and be counted for example library blogs. Check out Libraries Interact they have put together a list of Aussie Library Blogs. It is a way you can add your voice to the dialogue around libraries, librarians and the work that we do. But the best way is to just get and there and get involved in the community around you.

Peace