How to Be a Hip Librarian
Librarians are typically portrayed as old, straight-laced and inclined to "shush" patrons at the drop of a hat. However, today's librarian is required to be technologically savvy and carry a Master's degree in her field. With the previous wave of librarians retiring, young men and women are taking their place. With a little work, you, too, can be a hip librarian.
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Instructions
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Get your Master's degree in Library and Information Science. It is the first step to becoming a full-fledged librarian, although many library assistants are not required to hold the degree.
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Be knowledgeable about books. Many hip librarians are avid readers. As a result, these librarians are able to help patrons with recommendations and clear up confusion when they get a question about books and literature. Nothing is hipper than a librarian who can direct you to a great book.
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Study beyond your personal interests. One of the great things about a truly hip librarian is their well-rounded knowledge. Not only do librarians know their stuff when it pertains to their personal interests, but they can help anyone out with any topic, or at least steer them in the right direction.
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Embrace the need to be a computer nerd. Librarianship is just as much about computers and technology as it is about the printed word. The hip librarian can help patrons navigate a database or produce a resume in addition to finding a great novel.
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Bust through old librarian stereotypes. The hip librarian might wear tweed, but he certainly wears it in a way that updates it and makes it his own. It's not just about the look, but a librarian's attitude. In addition, the hip librarian is an upbeat, friendly gatekeeper to the library, instead of an avid "shusher."
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Defend the public's right to information. Many hip librarians are also social activists at the core. Because the career requires an engagement with and appreciation of the free exchange of information, many librarians find themselves acting against book banning and challenging, as well as protecting patrons' rights to privacy.
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