The Librarian (1947)

★★★★★ · Some things don't change · libtalian · 2007-05-24

Despite being made in the 40's, this film still holds up pretty well. It's nice to know that patrons have not changed in all these years "I'm looking for a blue book". It also does a good job of introducing the various fields of librarianship as well as the different types of libraries in the profession. It also emphasizes the fact that a library director needs to have many of the same skills that would be required in a CEO of the private sector. The section on outreach is poignant as well- in the 40's, they were making pamphlets and films; today, we are posting webcasts, blogs, public…

★★★★★ · Common Threads · Kevin_J · 2014-02-28

I have just begun to explore the Prelinger archives, and this is the first film I looked at. It gives a wonderful, historical glimpse at Library work as it was then. Many things continue in common, but in a sea-change of technology. This film gives a wonderful spectrum about the range of Librarians and Libraries and may serve as a good introduction to the field, useful in teaching, especially as a Social History piece.

★★★★ · Do you like people? Good. · Spuzz · 2003-09-26

Do you like books? Good. Then you have the general skills to be a librarian in this simplified instructional film on what it takes to be a librarian. It focuses on the many different types of librarians, and what education is needed. Pretty basic, but this dialogue made me crack up.. Man: "I'm looking for a book on Television: Librarian: "Do you know the name of it?" Man: "I Forget. i know it's a blue book, and it's on television." Librarian: "I think I can help you!"

★★★★ · Libraries- America's backbone. I think. · Yoda · 2005-01-10

The film was great, but I was especially disappointed about one position not mention- the Library Shelving Aide. Are we not important? The ones who put the blue television book where it belongs. And where would the reference Librarian find the books about blowing up China if not for the shelvers.

★★★★ · The Librarian · The Village Smith · 2005-07-12

If you decide to become a librarian because of this film, the profession is facing extinction. Good for the time period and amusing stuff today but surely no one takes this seriously.

★★★★ · The Librarian · geriola · 2007-05-24

Granted the movie is dated. It was issued in 1947. It is extremely valuable from an historical perspective. Plus, it covers the basics. I just graduated this past December, 2006 with my Masters from SJSU. I am in the second half of my life, and this fulfilled a lifelong dream. I am a children's librarian at a small Public Library. I thoroughly enjoy my work, and it has many intrinsic rewards. Being in a small library, I wear many hats. Good show!