Laura Schmidt - Fami City Library Andernach & currently in the Bachelor's degree in library and digital communication at TH Cologne

Professional background & career.

I really have to answer with one of the classic statements that many do not like to hear: I love reading. I found the training position through my family, who was aware of the start that the job could fit me. It became very clear to them when they were my statement from the Abitung "where do I see myself in 10 years?" have read. My answer was "[...] and a book in bed." On the one hand, a young person speaks here who does not yet know what they will do, but also one who likes to deal with books with a lot of passion. From 2019 to 2022 I trained as a specialist for media and information services, the field of library, in the Andernach city library. Although I never enjoyed learning in regular school days, this has changed by 180 degrees during my training. Learning the theory and practice side by side and in a team with great colleagues was the best that could happen to me. After my training, it was clear to me that it was not yet in the training. I then decided to start the bachelor's degree "Library and Digital Communication" together with a friend from the vocational school. From April I will be in the 6th semester (note from the editorial team: The interview was published in July 2025). I still keep the opportunity to start the master's program "Library and Information Science". Both the vocational school (Joseph-Dumont vocational college) and the studies (TH Cologne) take place in Cologne. From the second semester I realized that I would like to train people in my apprenticeship in the future and have successfully completed the training test in addition to studying. In contrast to many of my colleagues, I think that I am still at the beginning of my career, but I also run through the library world with open eyes, ears and, above all, hearts. It is a small setback every time when new people from my environment come around the corner with typical clichés. I think it's a shame that most of them do not know the many facets or do not see. Most of the library is not a dusty, silent or strict area for learning and researching. Library means a colorful variety of services and offers for every target group. In the few years in which I work in my job alone, I noticed that, despite all claims, libraries, media would no longer be relevant. Of course, other important points are added: Online media, library as a third place, leisure activities through offers for and through every, public relations, library of things, makerspaces ... Libraries change and adapt to the circumstances, but that does not mean that they are unimportant or superfluous. In the future there will veryeverly be any further changes. I am more than excited to see what is still coming and I'm really looking forward to it!

Learn more about the Andernach city library here.
Photo credits Laura Schmidt: © Laura Schmidt

Personal experiences

I think it's great that every day is different. A day is different through every user and their questions, wishes or presence. Of course there are also everyday tasks that bring a routine. Without these routine, important library processes would otherwise not be possible. I can only speak from the perspective of a small to medium -sized library, but it amazes what can be put together with a small team and low means. My opinion and view of things are important and are happy to be obtained. I was able to demonstrate my organizational talent at a painting campaign for daycare centers and primary schools for children from 3 to 11 years. The largest self -employment and trust in me showed me that I can get a good new offer through the theoretical tools and the experiences of the colleagues in combination with my idea and knowledge. Exactly these two moments were important to me and showed me that the career choice is the right one. Basically, I am happy to offer my help to support. Since I started studying and only a part -time job after my training, there are fewer events at the moment where I can actively participate. There is something for this year: Night of the Libraries and the 75th anniversary of the library. The event Christmas bakery (reading, singing, singing and baking with children) in cooperation with the House of the Andernach family, which takes place every December or the test run for my bachelor thesis, an event from the new series "Discover the senses" for children from 5 years, I was happy to do.

Meaning & added value.

It is enriching to work with every age group - be it with advice or at the events. It also offers the opportunity to work with different institutions. The network that you can build quickly becomes large and includes many different sectors, such as other educational institutions, companies or clubs. Libraries are great support for other educational institutions and should not be deleted from this equation. You can set important and above all new focuses that other educational institutions cannot afford. That is why libraries as a place of their own are so important with their own means both financially and in terms of personnel. Cooperation can be used to create new, larger or special events, projects or programs that cannot be managed without an additional position. Senior play afternoons, "Read in a special place" in cooperation with the city museum, scary night, Christmas bakery in cooperation with the House of the Andernach family and VIPs for kids (prince couple reads) are special events for the Andernach city library. Within the premises of the city library, there is a reading garden that invites the newspaper readers in particular. In addition to the almost usual services such as opposite loan, RLP, advice and the like, the Andernach city library offers a permanent exhibition on the German-American poet Charles Bukowski, who was born in Andernach. Guided tours are offered on request.

Recommendations.

Yes, in any case I would recommend the work in a library. The tasks within a library are diverse and varied. Everything is within the framework of what is given, but depending on the size of the library, everyone can find a focus (acquisition, development, contrast, interlibration, booking counter ...) that fits you. Just as not every office job is the same, not every library is the same. There are different priorities (public or scientific), sizes in the team, stocks or financial means, and yet each library has its great corners and needs people with new ideas. The interest in customer contact should be available. Depending on the area (children's and youth area), you should be stress-resistant. New ideas are always very welcome. New ideas and a possible practical implementation are even more popular. Theory is good and good, but it has to fit in practice. What works for one library does not work for another. Information management, web and social media competence, customer-oriented work with (patience and empathy) as well as (help for self-help) customers, time management and a willingness to learn about digitization as well as changes in new work processes or systems. For me, these are the most important skills and qualities. A small note on the list: Nobody is good in everything right from the start. You learn things that you can't do yet. Teamwork and communication also play a major role. Agreements, things that queue for the day or the like should be discussed with everyone or communicated by email. Nothing is worse and more annoying than no clear communication. Teamwork comes with good communication. I personally rely more on independence. I am still aware that I can or will never work without a team. That is why I first have good communication and this creates teamwork or, or rather, good teamwork. Misunderstandings or problems are completely normal.

Developments & future prospects.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has and will continue to find their way into everyday library life. As so often with new things, it can be both a curse and a blessing. If you learn to deal with the tools properly, it is more of a blessing. The basic library work will remain in the essential basic features as it is and only supplemented by helpful nuances. At least that's how I hope.

Development performance does not show who you are. They only define you on the leaf. Never let yourself be talked or stopped. Make the best of it and try to convince with your skills. Internships or trial days are best suited. So you can find out whether the job is something for you and the team gets to know you and can help you find things that are you.