I am continuing my posts on jobs that are losing their people. In this case, I am reflecting on our local libraries. In Connecticut where each small town has its own library, a resident can use any local library to check out materials. This means that I have spent time in three nearby libraries lately and noticed the same mystery of the disappearing librarian.
Going to the library has always been a social experience for my husband and me. We always chat with the librarian as we check out books, catching up on each other’s lives. One time when a favorite worker left for another state, we brought dinner to the staff as a goodby thanks. Whenever I had been too alone at home, I could be sure of social interactions at the library. Retirement has its rewards, but it comes with increased social isolation.
But some eager salespeople have convinced each library that it would be better served by self-check machines. Each library bought a different kind of machine, but they all eliminated the librarian. Now the first greeting when I walk into my favorite one is a bank of self-checkout machines. It is accompanied by a self-pickup of books on hold, previously an opportunity to chat with someone about the latest and greatest new books.
I can only imagine that someone convinced the library director that money could be saved by using the machines. That director may have had little interaction with the public and may not have realized the cost in social relations that were incurred with the cost savings of the machines. At any rate, I no longer look forward to my library trips. Now I just go for the books.
Saved By Words 
You were lucky to have such friendly librarian experiences. I can[‘t say the same here. But I’m also not good at socializing with people while they are working. I always feel like I am taking up their time.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well I never thought about taking up their time! Shows you how differently two people can see the same situation.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I think it might have been the librarians that I have dealt with. Same with other types of customer service people. Some are excited to help you, others look at you like you are interrupting them.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Human interaction could never be replaced by any machine. I was a student librarian once and I loved it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is very sad, Elizabeth, that human interaction is being replaced by technology.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I guess eventually we will all be out of work and we will have time to interact again!
LikeLike
Well, computers don’t have imaginations so they can write fiction or blog [smile].
LikeLiked by 1 person
I don’t know about this artificial intelligence fixation currently afoot. Hope it is as stupid as so many devices.
LikeLike
I commented earlier. i wonder where it got to.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Just late in responding on my part.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What! I have a blogging friend who is a librarian in my school district. She is great. Very knowledgeable about books. I hope they see the value of a librarian 😏
LikeLiked by 1 person