New chapter for student and librarian relationship

Emma Hutchins
Features Editor

You’re at a table in the library with a few friends when you pop open that Izze you bought during second lunch, and suddenly a librarian is at your side. Busted. Moments like these lead some students to feel a strained relationship with librarians. “There’s definitely some tension in the interactions with librarians,” said sophomore Jack Neuhaus.

Junior Carly* agrees, “I generally would say librarians and students are not on the best terms.”

However, head librarian, Michelle Luhtala, believes that while there are challenges between students and librarians, they’re not as widespread as some may think. “The majority of students are pretty compliant and cooperative with the rules, but there are a handful that draw attention and push back,” she said.

Although only a few students are frequent offenders, some rules are broken more than others. “The rules that are broken most often are definitely bringing food and drinks in and talking too much,” Carly said.

While students complain about the rules, Ms. Luhtala explained that each one has a purpose and that the librarians try to avoid enforcing an excess number of regulations.

“There are a few simple rules that we ask students to follow, because Mr. Pavia wanted the library to be a place used for quiet study, and especially for the kids in the quiet zone, they deserve to have their needs honored,” she said.

These rules include having six or fewer people at a table, looking productive, not eating or drinking anything except for water, remaining seated, and asking permission before filming and taking pictures in the library.

Occasionally a student will be removed from the library if he or she is continually disregarding the rules, and in some cases a parent may be notified if appropriate. Even so the librarians try to be understanding in their judgment calls.

“I wish students could remember how the Saxe library worked, or had an opportunity to see how other libraries are run, because we are exceptionally lenient,” Ms. Luhtala said.

In fact, several students expressed their gratitude for librarians keeping the study conditions ideal. “I appreciate their ability to keep disruptive behavior to a minimum,” said sophomore Dylan Kavookjian.

Carly agreed that removing distractions can be helpful, and said, “I like how they kick out obnoxious and loud people because people go to the library to do work and want quiet.”

Ms. Luhtala explained that the librarians feel an obligation to occasionally take these steps since the high school renovation a few years ago. “The town spent millions renovating the library, and it is unfair to the community to invest in a library and get another lounge – I think we owe it to the community to make this a place for study,” Ms. Luhtala said.

Moreover, not all student opinions of the librarians are negative. “A few of the librarians are personable, like they’ll know your names and can be really friendly,” Carly said.

Jack also acknowledged that they take their jobs seriously. “They may be strict, but they are also hard-working,” he said.

Overall, while students may feel their relationship with librarians can be prickly, Carly expressed her hope that both parties can work towards showing more kindness to each other. “I think the students should be more respectful of the librarians, but it should be a mutual responsibility, and the librarians and students could be a little more friendly with each other,” Carly said.

*names have been changed