Library Journal - The Inevitable Gen X Coup

Lauren D. sends this library story. Thanks!
Library Journal - The Inevitable Gen X Coup: "When I look around at conferences, skim blogs, or visit neighboring libraries, I notice there are many other Generation Xers out there. Our numbers are growing, and the responsibility of librarianship will soon be ours. Are we ready for our inheritance?

For many of us, libraries have just about always involved computers. I was in eighth grade when the card catalog disappeared, and even today I take full-text databases for granted. Most of us have little experience with the “old” ways. While the current generation of library leadership has done an excellent job transitioning from a print to a digital world, it will be up to us, and our upcoming Gen Y colleagues, to continue the movement.

It would be easy to accept the traditional role of the library, but don't we want more? It is time for our generation to recognize our significance and start moving toward the path of leadership and responsibility. I think our elders are a bit nervous about leaving the library legacy in our hands, questioning our values and commitment. Yet the profession needs us, perhaps more than is imagined, to ensure that libraries remain relevant in contemporary society. Here is how we can get things started."