In 2007, the ALA conducted a survey of rural librarians, asking them about such topics as their reasons for being in the field, thoughts about compensation, and job satisfaction. The results are fascinating. Some respondents sought out their careers while others stumbled into them. Some think they are well compensated, while others make only minimum wage. The answers are varied and intriguing, but nearly uniformly cement the fact that rural library workers are a special breed. They are a proud group that finds success despite imperfect conditions and understands the true value of their calling, even if those writing the paychecks do not.
The question of salaries is especially interesting. Note how one respondent tackled the issue.
"We have raised salaries here first by hiring and retaining excellent people and doing a wonderful job serving the community so that people really perceive the library as valuable." This Kansas librarian has accomplished what many of us only dream to be possible. They have finally communicated their value to their patrons and been rewarded with the financial recompense they deserve.
Sadly, this success is rare and countered by yet another Kansas librarian. "My co-director and I got a $.50/hr. raise this year to $10.00/hr. by cutting our education expenses for this next year." Here we see library directors who were making only $9.50 per hour as recently as 2007. The only way for them to increase their own salaries was to slash the budget of educational programs for their patrons. Such a compromise should not be necessary.
The dedication of library staff is unquestioned. They are smart, competent, and eager. The skills they bring to the job is all too often underestimated and thus, undervalued. The ALA's rural library survey gives us great insight into the mindsets of rural librarians from across the country, both those who have met with great successes, and those who still struggle to provide even the most basic services.
American Library Association. (2007, June). ALA-APA Rural Library Staff Salary Survey. Retrieved December 2, 2009, from American Library Association: http://www.ala.org/ala/aboutala/offices/olos/aboutolos/oloscommittees/rnt/rurallibsurvey.pdf
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Chris, its pretty sad when in order for a director to give themselves (or any staff) a raise some part of the budget must be cut.
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