In a given week, a reference librarian might work at the reference desk, do research for a partner or professor, serve on a committee, edit a newsletter, conduct a training session, and clear a printer jam. Meanwhile a technical services librarian might catalog some books, supervise the paraprofessional who is checking in serials, negotiate a contract with a bibliographic utility, serve on a university committee, and write a policy manual. Organizing, Organizing, Organizing An essential feature of library work is that it involves organizing. They organize people and projects. Most librarians are involved in setting library policy and making decisions about personnel and resources.
Some people think it is rewarding to be involved in the decision-making.
Others think it is awful to have to figure out how to balance a budget or decide when to discipline an employee who is not performing well. Professional Involvement Librarians often belong to regional and national associations where they can be involved by serving on committees, holding office, speaking, and so on. Librarians also often write for publication. In some academic settings, librarians must publish in order to receive tenure or promotion. This includes reading professional publications, monitoring discussion lists, and attending training sessions.