The Local Librarian as Expert
“No plan should be drawn up or accepted without the skilled guidance of a thoroughly trained expert.”—Duff-Brown.[126]
Is your own librarian such an expert? It is assumed that you have one, for some sort of a librarian is a prerequisite of even a rudimentary library.
“First appoint your librarian: the rapid growth of library interests has necessitated expert service in a multitude of essential details.”—Professor Todd.[127]
“Should be a scholar and a person of executive ability, versed in all departments.”—Fletcher.[128]
The local librarian is undoubtedly expert in most processes of librarianship, but is he or she such an expert—not theorist, but expert—in building, that other librarians look up to him for expert advice on that subject? If not, does not your problem deserve the advice of some librarian in whom others have confidence? Do you not need the best advice you can get?
Has your librarian the natural aptitude for planning, which would have made him a good architect?
Has he the presence and force which would lend weight to his opinions against a positive architect?
“Has he a mind broad enough to argue on equal terms with an experienced architect?”—Mauran.[129]
Should you consider him “a capable man of business,” as Mr. Hallam suggested thirty-two years ago?
Is he too young to teach, or too old to learn?
“A very good librarian may yet have no great fitness for the task of planning a building.”—Miss West (now Mrs. Elmendorff).[130]
And a junior librarian need not feel hurt if he is not trusted as an expert. As the best English authority[131] says: “Do not expect too much from a low-priced librarian.” To this I should add, “Do not expect too much of any librarian, even a leader in the profession, and do not expect omniscience of leaders.”
And it is, of course, superfluous advice not to take your local librarian at his own valuation. He is most likely to assume the function of an expert in building when he is least fitted. The really experienced librarian is apt to be modest and to ask assistance, in the belief that “two heads are better than one.” It will not be difficult, through a little quiet inquiry, to find where you can get the best advice, at home or elsewhere.