Librarianship isn’t normally considered a hazardous duty sort of job. National security doesn’t depend on us, and unlike The Librarians on TNT, we aren’t in charge of some of the most powerful relics of the literary world . . . no matter how much we may wish we were. We’re the guardians of knowledge and literature. We provide internet services, DVD rentals, books, magazines, storytimes, STEAM programs, and other free services to the patrons in our community, and we provide those services with a smile. Well . . . most of the time. There are probably a few library dragons among our ranks. Then again, I’m not sure I blame them.

In these uncertain times with more and more headlines about school shootings and bombings at large events, it’s getting harder and harder to be positive and keep smiling as a public servant. Active shooter training has become a mandatory part of our yearly training courses. We’re told to run if we can, hide if we can’t, and only fight back if we absolutely have to, yet there’s talk among our highest government officials about arming our teachers who receive the same Run, Hide, Fight training we do. This frightens me.

I try not to let the negativity in my environment overwhelm me, which isn’t always easy since I work in public service. I try not to get caught up in the online arguments and the political rants because I know that they can become a downward spiral with no end, and I know what happens when I allow myself to be dragged down the rabbit hole of negativity. However, sometimes thoughts need to be shared. Tonight I felt the need to put this out there: if you’ve never experienced this type of situation, perhaps you should be paying more attention to those who have. You also have no right to belittle, judge, or speak out against those who have experienced a tragic incident first hand. It’s all well and good to sit in your safe, comfy office and offer thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families. Those thoughts and prayers are appreciated, I’m sure. The thing is, those thoughts and prayers are empty and meaningless if you aren’t willing to do something about the problem. Trust me, whichever God you choose to worship would agree with me.

I grew up in the country, and I’m a pretty good shot. That being said, if I wanted to go to work armed I would have become a police officer or joined the Navy like my father. Alas, I’m not cut out for that type of work. I love fairy tales and mythology. I like to learn about things and share that knowledge with others. I love working with children. As frustrating as it can be at times, I love what I do.

Stay safe out there, friends.