Position postings

[JIM PARSONS]

	I don't recall the specific posting that John Hammer is 
	referring to, so I'll address the issue in general.

	We recently posted a position for a Library Systems Coordinator
	and intentionally asked for either an MLS or appropriate computing	
	degree or computing experience.  A lot can be said nowadays for 
	having at least one or two people who think "outside the box."  
	At my institution, we work very closely with Computing staff on
	a variety of "systems" issues, and the most useful and productive
	conversations we have is when someone asks the simple question,
	"Why?"  The Library has made quite a few changes in the way
	we provide service based on this relationship.

	A bit of irony, though: all the applicants for the position 
	noted above had an MLS.   

	Jim

>There was recently posted an announcement for a Library Systems
>Administrator position.  Am I the only one distressed by the fact it, and
>others I have seen in recent months, did not ask for any library
>experience.  None, not even having set foot in a library.  And this is for
>a LIBRARY systems position. 
>
>One other point also bothers me.  I know of several people, myself 
>included, that have experience in most if not all the duties mentioned, 
>all armed with only a degree in Library Science.  Isn't it time we 
>librarians are acknowledged as being capable of applying for systems 
>positions?
>
>I'll get off the soapbox now.
>
>***********************************************************************
>John C. Hammer                          +
>Head of Cataloging                      +            All opinions
>Watson Library                          +             expressed
>Northwestern State University           +              are mine
>Natchitoches, LA  71497                 +            and not those
>hammerj at alpha.nsula.edu                 +            of my employer
>318/357-4462                            +
>***********************************************************************
>
>

       ============================================================  
      | Jim Parsons                                                |
      | Assoc. Dir for Public Services Voice: (320) 363-5907       |
      | Joint Libraries of St. John's Univ/College of St. Benedict |
      | Clemens Library                Fax: (320) 363-5197         |
      | College of St. Benedict       Internet: JParsons at csbsju.edu|
      | St. Joseph, MN  56374                                      |
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