[Libs-Or] FW: Librarians Who Don't Read Much

[Jim Scheppke]

Dear Colleagues:

Yesterday Jerry Curry posted the op-ed piece that Susan Nielsen of the
Oregonian wrote about politicians who don¹t vote in which she closed with
this:

³Meanwhile, remember: A candidate who doesn't vote much is like a librarian
who doesn't read much. You can't help but question the person's true passion
for the job.²

I felt motivated to email her about her comment, asking why she appeared to
be picking on librarians and suggesting that there are some of us who are
not readers. Thankfully, she replied right back with this gracious comment
that clarifies her intentions. I wanted you all to see it. She gave me
permission to share it with you.

------ Forwarded Message

> Hi Jim,
>  
> Thanks for your note ...
>  
> As for picking on librarians, I intended to do nothing of the sort! My
> apologies if it came across poorly to you. I spent a long time trying to think
> of the right analogy. (Chefs who don't eat? etc.) It was hard to pick one. I
> settled on the librarian example because the idea of a librarian who doesn't
> read much sounded as unnatural and surprising as a political leader who
> doesn't vote much. Also, the act of reading evokes a kind of private and
> sincere enthusiasm, much like voting.
>  
> Sidenote: Every librarian I've ever known has been a voracious reader and an
> unusually conscientious person. Can't say the same for every politician. Hey,
> maybe more librarians should run for office! ;)
>  
> Thanks again for writing.
>  
> Cheers,
> Susan
>  
> ------ End of Forwarded Message
> 
> Jim Scheppke, State Librarian
> Oregon State Library
> 250 Winter St. NE
> Salem, OR 97301
> 503-378-4367
> (fax) 503-585-8059
> jim.b.scheppke at state.or.us
> 
> Go Green, Keep it on screen - think before you print.



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