Back to School
Hello Wisconsin Librarians!
After an amazing summer, fall has arrived here in Wisconsin. Over the summer I read six books to complete my local Adult Summer Reading Challenge at the George Culver Community Library in Sauk City and completed the Treasure Quest with my family at the Lester Public Library in Two Rivers while on our annual vacation on the coast of Lake Michigan.
In the fall, our thoughts naturally move to the new school year. This means different things to all of us. School and academic librarians welcoming students back into their spaces; public librarians breathing a sigh of relief after completing summer library programs and promoting an essential school supply with National Library Card Sign-up Month; and recent graduates setting career goals and adjusting to a new life-after-school structure. Personally, a return to school is exactly that for me. Earlier this month, I began my journey toward earning a master’s degree in library and information science.
Having spent 20 years in this field, I know the value of professionalism in the field of librarianship. Librarians don’t come to work every day because they “like to read books;” they serve their communities by providing access to information, resources, and skills. Librarianship isn’t a hobby. Librarians are information professionals who foster critical thinking, support research, help individuals navigate technology and data, and provide valuable community and social support. From pages to administrators, degrees or not, library workers do important work that requires a commitment to serving the public good.
Many of those who benefit from libraries are not aware of the skill and training that library workers must attain. Throughout my career journey, I’ve been afforded an immense amount of personal privilege. I was fortunate to be in the right places at the right times. I had incredible mentors who coached and encouraged me to become someone I could never have become on my own. Most of all, I’ve been surrounded by amazing colleagues who bring their own professionalism and insights into work every day. I’m truly shocked, humbled, but most of all honored to be in the role of State Librarian.
Even with the benefit of my training and experience, I readily admit I don’t know everything about librarianship. Because of that, I’m excited to dig in and fill gaps in my knowledge, engage in conversations with other students, and make myself the very best librarian I can be, both for myself and for Wisconsin. I feel that “Back to School” is excitement so many of our younger learners feel this time of year. I even set out my colorful cardigan the night before my first day. I’m only a few weeks in, have already learned valuable lessons, and I feel more joy and optimism in my daily work in the Bureau of Libraries.
While I return to school for self-improvement, I’m hoping it will also benefit Wisconsin and the library profession. I want to openly talk about my journey, affirm the value of the degree, and highlight librarianship and continual learning. I believe doing so will lift up all library workers in the state. No matter what your story is for the school year, we’re in it together. Let’s make this school year the best we can and support our students, learners, and communities!
Ben Miller
Wisconsin State Librarian