Thursday, March 25, 2010

Tragedy or Opportunity

The current state of affairs for most public libraries, especially those in my home state, is tragic. There is no other word that so completely describes the devastation of resources, the long-term implications and the short sighted budget cuts than a true tragedy (ala Shakespeare). In fact, I spoke to a colleague just the other day, and she shared that the attitude of many in their county was one of little hope, they are tired. I know many of us are thinking, “Been There, Done That.”

But is this situation a complete tragedy or is there, hidden in this cloud, a silver lining of opportunity? I would hope the response is a resounding “Yes.”

We have an opportunity, yea; we have a mandate, to look at what we do, how we do it and to reevaluate all things. This is one of the few times in librarian history when there are no longer any sacred cows. It’s hard, but it is an opportunity like few you will see. It will not knock long, so take advantage.

From an Entrepreneurial viewpoint, difficult times can offer the most opportunities. It is a time that permits taking a chance, a risk that 'Success' would not allow; it brings openings to alter course that a 'Better Time' refused to permit; and it swings wide an open door to evaluate, assess and question every aspect of your organization when 'Smooth Sailing' refused to let you ask the tough questions.

So ask the tough questions, dig and tunnel and observe every aspect of your operation. Look for the openings, the risks, the opportunities that were not there before. Be the entrepreneur, chart the course that will sail you through this storm.

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