Librarians do not really have a set "wardrobe" or dress code to which they need to adhere, despite the stereotype of glasses, hair buns, and practical clothes (though there is nothing wrong with this). We can wear anything that fits us and our library. For me, that sometimes means shirts with artistic paint splatters and cute word play.
While I do own cardigans, button-up shirts, dress pants, and flats, I usually "dress down" to fit my job profile of a Young Adult/Teen Librarian. In particular, I love to wear shirts that match events I have planned for the day or themes we have at the library for the week. At My Little Pony programs, for instance, my Dr. Whooves shirt makes an appearance, creating a fandom crossover! And, oh yes, my teens absolutely love MLP and will discuss, at length, their favorite ponies and the logistics of Equestria.
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| TARDIS hat optional (who am I kidding, I always have it). |
It's not like I have forgotten that I can be fashionable beyond these items - quite the opposite! I am working on building my 20-something professional wardrobe and strut my stuff in these outfits at the library when I want to give off a more, "Yes, I am a professional," vibe.
When I wear one of my graphic tees or fandom shirts, however, patrons really notice and even strike up a conversion, leading us to talk about Alice in Wonderland, The Hunger Games, or whatever else I happen to be wearing. These seem to make me a bit more approachable, especially for young adults, as there is immediately something they can relate to before they even ask about where to find a book or when an event is happening.
Both outfits (or a combination) are very effective and work well in my library setting for my position. I have yet to encounter a difficulty where a patron was hesitant to ask me a question because I was in my "professional" or my "fandom" clothes at the moment, but do notice when they are more open and eager in interact for one reason or another.
No matter what you wear, just ensure that your Library Director is aware of your mindset, if necessary, and realize that your clothes do have an effect on your patrons. And always remember to hold your head high and think "Fabulous."
For more fashionable and fun examples of librarians and their wardrobes, be sure to visit the Librarian Wardrobe Tumblr. I love seeing the cute outfits and seeing librarians in their natural habitat!
When I wear one of my graphic tees or fandom shirts, however, patrons really notice and even strike up a conversion, leading us to talk about Alice in Wonderland, The Hunger Games, or whatever else I happen to be wearing. These seem to make me a bit more approachable, especially for young adults, as there is immediately something they can relate to before they even ask about where to find a book or when an event is happening.
Both outfits (or a combination) are very effective and work well in my library setting for my position. I have yet to encounter a difficulty where a patron was hesitant to ask me a question because I was in my "professional" or my "fandom" clothes at the moment, but do notice when they are more open and eager in interact for one reason or another.
No matter what you wear, just ensure that your Library Director is aware of your mindset, if necessary, and realize that your clothes do have an effect on your patrons. And always remember to hold your head high and think "Fabulous."
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| Because you're worth it. |
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