A question for the group
This post is a little off-topic, having nothing to do with social libraries, but it does have to do with library career choices. I was hoping for a little advice from some of you who have worked in libraries for longer than I have as I have a job opportunity in front of me that I'm not sure what to do about.
Currently, I work part-time as a technician at a public library, meaning that I do not ever work the reference desk or even answer a question more complicated than "do I have any fines on my account?" The most difficult thing I do is order the branch's supplies. It's been good so far--a low stress job that I can have while I work on my degree. However, I have been worried that when it comes time for me to interview for librarian positions, I will not have much experience.
Then I found out about a small (tiny) college near me that is looking for a head librarian (only librarian). The college literally has about 100 students, so the job is only part-time. It would, however, be a much more responsible job, as I would be in charge of the workings of the whole library, including acting as a faculty liason. I also am eventually hoping to work in a college library, so this job would be more in the direction of my interests.
Practically speaking, the two jobs pay about the same, with the job I'm in now having benefits and the college job having none (I do mostly use my husband's benefits). Also, currently I drive 35 min to work, and the college is 5 min away from my house. So is it a better idea to stay in my comfortable, easy job until I graduate, therefore having more time and energy for school as well as having been employed at a larger, more well known library. Or is it better to get the experience of actually being a librarian and get my "foot in the door," though at a small, unknown library?
Thanks for your thoughts!
