THE STATE OF AMERICA’S LIBRARIES

This report, from the American Library Association, is fairly interesting. Of course it is only about public libraries, but that’s to be expected from ALA. Here are a couple of its findings—and my comments.

“Libraries and librarians are good citizens.” Duh!
“Americans appreciate libraries and librarians.” Yeah, that’s why they pay us so well.
“Libraries are keeping up with the times—and with the public’s needs.” NOT!

Mean librarian salaries, 2005:
“Director $78,054; Department head $55,833; Supervisor $44,324; Non-supervising librarian $47,246; Beginning librarian $36,486.” How does this compare to what you are making?

Read the executive summary at http://www.ala.org/ala/pressreleases2006/march2006/stateoflibraries.htm