FutureLibrary

The Dewey Medal…Library of the Future Style October 14, 2009

The dewey medal,  undoubtedly the hottest prize in world librarianship, is reaching it’s climax. Into it’s second year, we have a fabulous group of  candidates who are  causing headaches for the judging panel. It’s great to see how competitive some staffers are. The “Dewey” as many now fondly call it, has achieved a significant niche in the library psyche. It has brought out many positive qualities which would otherwise be buried underneath a furrowed brow or look of disdain.

My view of the medal, like many, is that it rewards areas  such as innovation, attention to detail, character and customer service. Staffers who whine, complain, are tardy, with no imagination should not bother getting their snuggy out for awards night.

Past winners have been those who are not afraid to get their hands dirty, warmly greet the public when the doors are opened, and regularly go the extra mile in the name of customer service. Do not think that because you have worked in libraries for 30 years or so that you automatically qualify for the medal. Things are not done that way in the “library of the future.” Length of the line of satisfied customers, not tenure is the measure of this rule. These people are the oil which keep the wheels of customer service moving, they never rest till the job is done, are never satified with second best, and will certainly not die wondering. Who will be your Dewey Medalist for 2009?

You can follow the medal’s progress at www.twitter.com/deweymedal