Views on advisory roles

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.