The information revolution has made it possible for librarians to work in just about any setting, not just libraries. Managers need to understand that young professionals have many more work options opened to them than even ten years ago. And many are seeking out these jobs because they offer better benefits. Managers need to reconsider how they manage professional development opportunities in their workplace. Quite often, when budgets are cut, professional development opportunities are the first things to go.
Professional development is important to everyone in the library.
Without it, many employees are more willing to find it elsewhere. In my book, I discuss several different ways that this can be done. Most of these opportunities demand an investment of time and money, but mostly time. Librarians actually have an advantage over those employed in many other types of jobs, because libraries are filled with information. Learning is an integral part of that environment.