View from the Hill

Alphabetical, colour or Dewey - how do you sort yours?

My friend Louise is always good for a news story about our profession and she's come up trumps again today. The Guardian has an interesting article which offers some advice on how to fill your time in a redundancy-style situation. Ok ok, not quite - it's about James Purnell, the ex-Work & Pensions Secretary, and how he has arranged his bookshelves. The article in itself is interesting but what amused me so much more are all the comments. I can't see a comment from Louise (yet!) but I know that she has immaculately arranged bookshelves by author and DVDs/CDs by genre then artist. She also utilises the "pile" theory for new books. Oh dear. Have I revealed too much? Let me share my thoughts. I go for genre then alphabetical with my books. Well. If you've been round to my place you'll know all that means is my Dave Gormans sit together, likewise Bill Bryson, Tony Hawks and Harry Potters. And there's always a massive pile of Louise's books next to my bed, waiting to be read!

Rise up librarians and offer your suggestions! If there are any psychologists reading this...

- Suzanne Wheatley

Get It Loud in Libraries

Is it me? Don't get me wrong, I love reading about creative uses of libraries, encouraging and enticing new folk through the doors. But I do wish journalists could move away from the tired old stereotype of librarians telling everyone to be quiet. Yes, I remember being told to be quiet - but I was 14, at school, sniggering over a slightly naughty passage my friends and I had found in a book. It was right and proper that we were disciplined!

In this article on the BBC website about Morecambe Library hosting a rock gig featuring Juliette Lewis, the journo writes:

"Morecambe librarian Wendy Pollard describes the show as "wonderful" and was not tempted to tell anyone to "shhhh""

Really? Did she actually say that? I suspect not. But I bet the writer got a giggle out of it. Let's be proud of the innovative ways our libraries are being used. Surely the journos should match that innovation? Maybe it's something The Borough Market Twelve could add to their agenda?

- Suzanne Wheatley (aka Disgruntled of SE1)

Liberian Girl

Michael Jackon's sad, early demise this morning reminded me of the song Liberian Girl.  Many years ago in another life I met the Liberian President, also sadly no longer with us.

Today's news caused me to reflect how many times in my career I have been asked to find a Liberian.  Yes I knew they wanted a librarian, but it was so tempting to say I would get back once I had spoken to the Liberian President.  But then I would think - who I am to talk.  I often mention the Boys' Brigrade.  Not for nothing are there ontologists working on natural language searching projects.  That has to include natural language mistakes as well.

Yes, it's Friday, and the weather is warm and muggy.   Off now to find that ontologist.  I'll leave the Liberians til Monday. - Sue Hill

Diverse talent in abundant supply uplifts the soul

Last night I had the extreme pleasure of being one of 2,500 enthralled people at the Barbican listening to music performed by around 250 people who make up EC4 Music.  Most have 'day jobs' and for them performing music is a joyous outlet carried out in their spare time. 

The programme was just four pieces (Fanfare for the Common Man, Danse Macabre, An Orkney Wedding with Sunrise and Carmina Burana) but each was exquisite, different and offered something special.  I have been humming the finale of Carmina Burana all day and can't stop smiling when I remember the strains of the bagpipes that so beautifully heralded the Sunrise and ended the riotous Orkney Wedding!

The Prince's Trust will be the deserving beneficiary of around £30,000 as a result of this coming together of talent and the desire to share it with others who can only listen in awe.

As we look around our work places we should be aware that many of our colleagues have more to offer than we think.  Is your colleague quietly working away in the corner an accomplished musician, a prolific writer or perhaps someone who gives up their spare time to help those less fortunate learn to read?  Sometimes it is these hidden talents - the ones that aren't part of any job - that make the individual concerned a better worker, a more rounded individual.

I am proud to say that the girl in the black dress (ok - so they all had black frocks) playing the oboe was one of our team.  As well as playing music, she and several of the team are out pounding the pavements in preparation for one of the forthcoming city marathons.  All to raise funds for good causes dear to our heart.  We have another who gives up her weekend to provide respite care for children in care.  I could go on.  It makes me proud to know and employ them all.

It should almost be compulsory when interviewing potential new employees to ask what they do outside of work.  The extra layer that these outside interests bring to the business can only be a benefit.  Now - back to my work and to humming.