It feels that way. After several years of wondering about the future of the private school where I have worked for twenty years, I learned the answer today. While the school will continue, the Board of Directors has determined that the budget does not allow for the continued presence of a librarian on the faculty. Even though I reacted with equanimity, inside I am in turmoil. Even though I knew that my time here might be limited, I always thought I would be the one determining when I would say goodbye.
As I walked through the halls of the building I first entered in the fall of 1991, everything seemed different. How could things be the same when the building where I have come since my children were young (three are now married, two with children of their own) will, in a few months, no longer be my almost daily destination?
The class arriving in the library after I received the news, of course, knew nothing. The only difference was that I threw caution to the winds and allowed the kids to look at newly arrived books, without labeling or entering them into the record first. Better let children see and enjoy them now. With the school year winding down, and the future of the collections uncertain, who knows what will be in store for these treasures and the others already on the shelves?
I have always tried to keep the tone of this blog upbeat, so forgive me for deviating from the normal atmosphere. There is, there must be, a silver lining in this cloud. I must simply go out and find it.
Apr 25, 2012 @ 09:26:17
I hope that you find an institution that will appreciate your talents and expertise in short order!!!
Apr 25, 2012 @ 09:26:58
I hope that you will find an institution that appreciates your talents and expertise in short order!
Apr 25, 2012 @ 10:20:24
Thank you for your encouraging words! I am sure there is a silver lining in this cloud. With G-d’s help, I’ll find it.
May 17, 2012 @ 15:05:09
Not sure if you want to travel all the way up to Orange County, NY, (2hours north of Bklyn) there is an opening in the Highland Falls SD. It is the little town right outside of West Point. Good luck!
Jun 01, 2012 @ 10:42:42
You will find it, if you already haven’t. It’s sad. I think it’s ridiculous to cut the one thing – reading – from a “school” ? Huh? Isn’t that how we learn … in school – by reading and loving books? I think so. I’m sorry you have to go. It’s sentimental, I’m sure. You are strong. You will find it..
Jun 01, 2012 @ 12:27:51
I couldn’t have said it better myself. I’ve been told I might be able to stay one day a week for a small salary, but the principal who informed me of this says he envisions the librarian taking over teaching technology and being less of a traditional librarian. (?) Since I know what would happen to the collections the four days I am not there, among other things, I’m not sure this is an option. Thank you for sharing your experience and your wonderful words. I am grateful. Basya the bookloving grandma
Jun 01, 2012 @ 13:51:24