It seems to me that the role of an advisor is a role of a “Jack-of-all-trades”
librarian, where it’s their job to have knowledge of the now, the then, and the
soon-to-be, to know where everything is in the library, and to have a hand in
as much as possible.
The advisory role also appears to carry a large amount of responsibility
due to the concept of having a hand in as much as possible, because while
having a hand in everything, you would also need to keep up to date with what
you have a hand in. Below are dot points from the moodle based on what an
advisory role consists of with brief summaries of opinion:
- Knowledge of reference sources which can be used for research on literature - reference books and databases
This appears to be
a more complete skill that a patron would think all librarians possess, except
that while a one might have complete knowledge in one database or set of
reference books, the advisory role has knowledge in as many sources as
possible.
- Knowledge of the collection of the library in detail
Once again, this appears
to be a more complete skill of what a librarian would be expected to have.
- Knowledge of best sellers, award winning title, popular authors, etc.
This requirement of
an advisory role appears to ensure that the advisory role keeps up with the
current flow of events so the library can attract the most foot traffic, and to
attract new readers and users.
- Compiling lists and similar handouts for yourself and readers - pro-actively and on request
This requirement
makes sure the advisory role keeps an active interest in subjects that are
actively sought after by the library’s users, while actively keeping up with
the subjects so the advisory role is always up to date.
- Programming displays and events
This personal seems
to be the role of a techie or someone who has a more complete experience in
computer operations, but in the mindset of an advisory role being a “Jack-of-all-trades”,
this requirement can appear to be logical.
- Involving yourself with library and community promotional activities such as Book Clubs, Author talks, book signings, staff book talks, story times etc.
This requirement
ensures that the advisory role maintains active participation in library
affairs and events so as to make sure the operations run smoothly and
efficiently.
- Compiling information for interested people on where to find reviews, blogs, literary events etc.
This appears to tie
together with the first dot point, where it is an enhanced skill of what a
typical librarian would possess.
- Having strategies at hand for dealing with commonly asked customer queries about books and reading
Once again, this
appears to be a skill implemented for librarians to universally possess.
