Education and route in: 

BA English and Classics, MA Information Studies. Achieved Chartered Librarian status in 2008. Chair CILIP Sussex. 

ABIGAIL’S LIFE AND LOVES AS A PUBLIC LIBRARIAN 

When studying for an MA In Information Studies, public libraries seemed to offer the most opportunity for a challenge. The place and role of public libraries, how they’re funded, who works in them, what skills they need – all these topics and more are constantly debated and contested at national, international and local levels. I was keen to be part of that debate, practically and intellectually. 

The variety of the everyday work appeals to me. I get involved in everything from selecting the stock, contributing to policy decisions, running events, doing user education, managing staff and the front-line enquiry service too. Our users ask us anything and everything, from the practical and everyday to the obscure and bizarre, and we have to find an answer for them all. 

For those interested in the public sector, a commitment to playing an active part in the future of public libraries is essential; they are an institution in flux where traditional values negotiate with the demands of serving new forms of community. It’s a really exciting time to be involved and a fantastic sector within which to carve out an interesting career. 

What’s next? Short-term I’m considering an international job exchange through Lib-Ex, in order to gain a broader perspective and more experience in the areas that interest me, particularly reader development and services to young people. Longer term I’d like to do a PhD at some point. For my next job-move I’d like to specialise in reader development, making broader policy and practical decisions than my current role allows. 

Additionally, I am currently Chair of the CILIP Sussex sub-branch, which affords me an invaluable opportunity to gain leadership experience and get involved in the workings of professional organisation, for example attending the Policy Forum.

Best bit about my job: I am fortunate to work with a creative and dynamic set of colleagues who are always thinking outside the box and keep me inspired and enthused on a daily basis. 

Any downsides? You can put an infinite amount of effort into working in public libraries as there is always more to do and other exciting projects to get involved in, so I have learnt to prioritise and make sure I get enough ‘me time’. 

Abigail’s tips:

·        Take advantage of the many free student places on conferences and training events. They are great opportunities to meet people doing what you might like to do and find out more about particular sectors. You can often bargain yourself a place if none is advertised by offering to write an article on the event!

·         Also, if you don’t have experience in a particular area, then volunteer for a period, perhaps while you are studying. This is an excellent way to discover first hand what is involved without committing yourself long term.