It must be nice to get paid to read: Librarians on reading at work

Abstract

While modern librarians may have knowledge of books, their skillsets and job expectations typically expand into additional areas related to information. Despite this, a common stereotype of librarians and library staff is that they are allowed, or paid, to read at work. This study explores the stereotype through experiences of 280 librarians and library staff in the United States (US) through a mixed-methods survey. Research questions ask if these librarians and library staff are expected to be well read and knowledgeable about trends in the field, and about common practices around reading at their places of work. Findings suggest that librarians and library staff are expected to be well read and current with professional trends, and that they are generally allowed to read for professional development while at work. Responses differed based on format, time on and off of public facing desks, and for reading that blurred the lines between personal and professional work, with book club preparation as a notable example. Participants described attention to patrons as a priority, and concerns with public perception. Results from this study provide insight into policies and norms across the US, with additional questions developed for further exploration.