The librarian of today, and it will be true still more of…
“The librarian of today, and it will be true still more of the librarians of tomorrow, are not fiery dragons interposed between the people and the books. They are useful public servants, who manage libraries in the interest of the public . . . Many still think that a great reader, or a writer of books, will make an excellent librarian. This is pure fallacy.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Modern librarians serve the public by managing resources, not as gatekeepers; expertise in reading or writing doesn’t guarantee library proficiency.
In simple terms: Librarians are public servants, not just book experts.
Key Takeaway
Develop professional library skills beyond reading.
Themes
library science
public service
expertise
misconception
Mood
pragmatic
educational
Type
informative
analytical
When to use this quote
- library work
- education
- public institutions
Key Concepts
information management
community outreach
professional development
Questions to Reflect On
- What skills are essential for effective librarianship?
- How can libraries better communicate their role?
A Different Perspective
Assuming all readers make good librarians overlooks necessary administrative skills.