I like that the Ohio Library mission page points out that every patron maintains a personal meaning of what a library is. My favorite one that they mentioned is that a library, for some, is a place with bad parking. I think that's funny because parking never enters my mind - unless I can't find any. I usually think of the resources inside of a library - shelves of books, helpful librarians, computer labs, study areas, etc. The discussion about individual perceptions regarding libraries is important, because if we know the prevailing opinions of our library, we can either try to modify them or create new ones. We can serve individuals better if we know how they feel about their library experiences.
I also found the Houston Library Customer Service 123 link helpful. I took the Attitude Quotient Test on the Staff Role page and scored high. I guess I like what I'm doing - there's a shock! But seriously, the page brings up an important issue - the staff, the environment we create by our attitudes is what patrons respond to. It doesn't matter how high-tech we are or how many new books and DVDs we have, if no one wants to be around the staff! The library is a community center and it is important to communicate the kinds of behaviors that create a sense of community.
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"the environment we create by our attitudes is what patrons respond to. It doesn't matter how high-tech we are or how many new books and DVDs we have, if no one wants to be around the staff!"
ReplyDeleteI feel personally attacked by these comments!
Pastrami, you're right I was talking about you but I was trying to be democratic about it. You're just too smart and read between the lines. Remember: I'm watching you and I always have my notebook handy. :)
ReplyDeleteI've seen it. It the Blue's Clues one, right?
ReplyDeleteI promise to straighten up and fly right!
That's right. It is a Blue's Clues one. It looks innocent enough, doesn't it?
ReplyDelete