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The Authority Control Transition : From Paper
to Online Files
Angela Murphy-Walters
Librarians Exploring New Worlds: Seeking Alternative Careers Presented by
Eve J. Davis, EBSCO Information Services Eve's lively, informative presentation
was either a cautionary tale, or a rallying cry, depending on your point of
view! Today there are many opportunities for librarians to work in
non-traditional areas, outside the library. Librarians bring many highly sought
after, marketable skills to the workplace such as information and project
management, problem solving, demonstration and training skills, computer
knowledge, and a strong service orientation. Examples of possible areas of
employment include book, electronic database and information vendors and
bibliographic utilities. Opportunities exist in sales, marketing, cataloging
and bibliographic support areas. Working outside the traditional library
setting is an excellent alternative, especially for those who like to travel
and work independently. Eve cautioned that it's not all fun and games, however.
Some of the drawbacks include long hours, isolation and financial insecurity.
For those with a high energy level, excellent interpersonal skills and a high
tolerance for individual differences, this might just be the challenge you are
seeking. If you think an alternative career could be right for you, Eve
suggested checking with vendors, looking at ads in the professional journals or
contacting organizations such as Professional Librarians in Alternative
Non-Traditional Career Caucus:
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