What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the word `librarian’? Are you thinking of an old lady in a long skirt with smudged lipstick and a mess of hair on top of her head telling you to shush? That is the way most librarians are depicted on television and in movies. However, most librarians don’t look or act like this. Most librarians are very intelligent individuals of all ages who run or maintain libraries. After all, aren’t librarians those people that you are worshiping the night before your final paper is due? Linda Hawkins, a librarian who works in the reference section of the Quinnipiac University library, explained some of the things that she does.
Q. Why did you decide to be a librarian?
A. “I love to read. It’s been my dream since I was a little girl because I have always loved reading.”
Q. What did you study in school?
A. “For my undergraduate degree, I studied English and French. I also have my Masters degree in Library Sciences.”
Q. What exactly is your job description here at QU?
A. “I work at the reference desk with reference electronic services. I help students find what they are looking for in the reference section. I am also in charge of interlibrary loans.”
Q. Do you find your job difficult?
A. “My job entails a lot of detail, but it is not necessarily difficult. It is busy in the library and I believe I have a demanding job, but I wouldn’t say it is hard. I think it’s because I love my job so much, I don’t find it difficult.”
Q. Do you believe being a librarian is a prestigious job?
A. “I think that depends on the person who is looking at it. Some people would say yes, others would say no. I definitely believe it’s an important job.”
Q. Would you recommend that other people become librarians?
A. “Yes, I believe it is a very enjoyable job. I look forward to going to work every day and believe that liking your job and wanting to go to work is the most important aspect of anyone’s career. If you like working with people and love to read, a librarian is the perfect job for you. There have been a lot of changes in technology that has changed the way librarians work. Most people probably do not realize how computerized everything is in libraries today. A librarian’s job is more technological than most people think.”
Q. How long have you been a librarian?
A. “I have been a librarian for twenty-five years. I have worked at QU for three years.”
Q. What do you think if the library here and what do you think of the difference after the renovations?
A. “I think the library here is wonderful. We are all thrilled with the new renovations. There is so much more light and space for the students. We love giving tours because it is such a beautiful library and a dramatic difference from what we had before.”
Q. Has any student ever come to you in panic and you helped them dramatically?
A. “Yes, students come to me in a panic all the time and tell me that they’ve been looking for something that they will just never find. Since I have so much experience, most of the time, I know exactly what direction to point them in. They are always so grateful which makes me feel like I’m really helping them. It makes my job even more enjoyable.”
Linda Hawkins certainly proved that a librarian’s job is very important and their hard work and dedication should not go unnoticed. Next time you’re in the library, thank the person who helped you find the information needed to ace your paper. It will brighten their day and make them remember how valuable their job truly is.