Blessed are we who use Multnomah's libraries
In the realm of free, bad gains little hold. Where money dictates, good sells out cheap.
By Nedroj Walker
Portland has arguably the best library system in the country, which by default could very well mean the best in the world. But the economy of its city and state has bottomed the nation for years. This means the fortress is besieged—a hiring freeze is one way among many.
Volunteering there I have a hope of one day working there. It would be what I consider fulfilling work. But I can't rely on this. I'm leaving my twenties behind after twin years. I must beware and be ready to move on.
If I had had the epiphany years ago I would have been working there now—maybe. I want to be a library assistant and if I like that get a Masters in Library Science so I could become a full and true librarian.
With such a professional title I would abuse my new found power on a regular basis. “What do you know? I am a librarian, you can't question me. I live in a world of hard facts. Your opinions are just wasted air.”
The library system here has a goal of changing society for the better. They are not a passive entity. They give a damn. When the federal government came down upon them demanding filtering of the Internet, they stood up and fought back. Ultimately they lost in court and the government threatened to pull their funding. So they said. “Fine, your money is pittance. We don't want it.” And to this day I can surf porn for free at any branch.
Oh to be a part of something so idealistic and grand is such a good and worthy dream.