Comments for Moorman's Musings

Comment on Civil Public Discourse by Michelle Eichorn

Michelle Eichorn — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:13:10 +0000

I think that another factor that has spurred the decline in civil discourse is the notion that there are two sides to every issue. That there are only two sides means one must choose one side over the other. In reality, most issues are multi-faceted. Sides do not have to be drawn.

Thanks for your comments.

Comment on Nomenclature by Sue

Sue — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:04:27 +0000

Using the term “patron” seems so antiquated. As many people do, I carry cards from various places: library, bookstores, grocery stores, retail shops, and the auto club, just to name a few. I’m a customer of some, and a member of some.
The library card means something different. It means I am an Associate, a Friend, and since we are in the South, perhaps a Confederate.
Any of these will do just fine.
Thanks.

Comment on Nomenclature by Melissa

Melissa — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 15:36:48 +0000

I tend to use “customer” for everyone because it implies they have a right to ask me for help and I have an obligation to help them. “Patron” implies a larger power differential, and nowadays a library “patron” only contributes money indirectly unless he or she pays a fine, in which case they are a delinquent. If they do actually give a library a bunch of money BEFORE they croak I suppose “Patron” would be appropriate.

“Folks” works well if you can afford to be informal, otherwise I re-fight that particular battle every time it comes up.

Comment on Nomenclature by Jessica

Jessica — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 21:03:41 +0000

I too have spent a lot of time weighing the advantages and disadvantages of various terms for the folks who come in the library. And you’re right: Most won’t care much one or the other, as long as we staff treat them well.

But language has power. Usually this power is subtle, but it is nonetheless far more important than we give it credit for. That’s why I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about the issue.

And what have I concluded, after several years’ contemplation?

My preferred term is still ‘patron.’ I’m aware of the arguments against it, and I confess that it does bother me to use a word that may be confusing to some folks, but then again, we use the Dewey Decimal system, which is DEFINITELY confusing.

I do not care for ‘customer’ because it makes me think of unhappy people standing in line at Walmart.

I truly do not care for ‘user.’ At best, it is meaningless (EVERYONE uses something); at worst, it makes one think of drug users.

My solution, in my written and oral correspondence, is to purposefully rephrase my statement. “Lady” or “gentleman” or “young man” or “young woman” all work well for individuals; “Folks” works well for groups.

Thus far it has served me well, though it avoids the bigger issue of finding a catch-all term for the people who partake of the library’s services. I still don’t have a great suggestion for that, I’m afraid.

Comment on Privacy by Sue

Sue — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:49:56 +0000

I concur & wonder more & more whether there are too few of us who care about privacy. The decision as to whether to release certain information about a patron, neighbor or friend can sometimes be difficult but everyone needs to think about whether in the case under review, would they want someone else to release their personal information to an unknown requestor. I was pleased to see that the PC’s taken from the library in MD., regarding the anthrax suspect, were only released after a warrant was issued.

Comment on Programming by Todd Elliott

Todd Elliott — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 12:44:41 +0000

Jmoorman, I like the fine tone of your blog – rather professorial, which appeals to my inner student. Only one question: no picture of your smiling face? TE

Comment on Beginnings by Jean Marie

Jean Marie — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 14:43:09 +0000

Nice initial post. I am looking forward to future posts. Does anyone know of any other library directors that have blogs?–Jean Marie Taylor