Public vs school libr

[Gary Metzenbacher <garymetz@COMTECK.COM>]

Hi all,

I'm a little disappointed to discover that there seems to be something
of a versus situation here.  Having served in both capacities:
Certificated School Library Media Specialist and as a Public Librarian
I've found that each position has it's unique tensions and rewards.

As a school lms I found that I rarely had/have leisure time to simply
do nothing.  Even my summer time is spent in the school library getting
things done that it was impossible to do during the school year while
the kids were there.  As a public librarian I found that I did a lot
of weekend and evening work at home to get ready for what I anticipated
would be the needs during the day.

That's not to say that I didn't like either of those activities -- I
wouldn't do them if I didn't like the work.  It does say that there's
a lot more to either position than lots of folk think.  Only those of
us who've been in both can fully appreciate the amount of 'extra'
effort/hours they each take.

I liked the time in public librarianship that I had to get some
professional reading done.  I also liked the opportunity to deal with
patrons of all ages.  In the school library I like the time I spend
with the kids.  I feel like I am actually making a difference that
will help these kids with their future.  (Uh, oh -- getting almost
preachy here -- better stop)

I know that each position has its frustrations but they both also
have some wonderful aspects (and I think those are why we're in
the profession anyway)  I doubt if either of us are getting rich
quick by being library professionals ;-)

gary metzenbacher, lms
marion, indiana