WebJunction

Sarah, thanks for bringing up this interesting question. I can see an advantage in wearing uniforms to make the library staff more identifiable, especially since there's a trend to come out from behind our desks.

I did a quick search on PubLib and found this thread on [url http://lists.webjunction.org/publib/search.cgi?query=%22bring+in+the+clones%22&submit=Search%21&metaname=swishdefault&sort=swishrank ]Bring in the Clones[/url]. This post cracked me up:

"I am not interested in uniforms for staff. Weirdly enough, we often end up dressing with the exact same colors and styles without even trying. For some reason, this became blue sweater day."

Are we inherently "uniform" without having a code imposed on us? I hate to think so. What do you all think?

I used to think uniforms were a terrible thing to do to people, but a friend's experience with City Year has turned me around on SOME uniforms (City Year, if you aren't familiar with the program, is a domestic, 1 year Peace Corps-like program for young people for community service and leadership development.) At City Year, uniforms are an important part of developing a shared spirit, and seem to go a long way toward bridging some big gaps in culture and economics of the participants. Plus - my friend said she's never spent so little time worrying about what to wear in the morning!

Well-selected, with a VARIETY of options to choose from, I think librarians could look very professional and stylish in uniform, and I fully agree that as librarians "come out from behind the desk" that it's important to help those patrons who are new to the library know how to find assistance... just make sure the "she blinded me with science" big plastic cats-eye glasses on a chain are a part of the required garb!

From City Year's website: You may be wondering why City Year corps members wear uniforms. The answer goes to the heart of what City Year is all about. City Year is dedicated to bringing diverse groups of people together in service, and the uniform serves as a unifying force among corps members. Provided by our Official Outfitter, The Timberland Company, the uniform has become an important symbol of service to the community, especially to children. When a City Year team enters a school, community center, or neighborhood, the uniformed corps member commands respect and embodies pride. Corps members earn their uniforms by completing a training program and demonstrating commitment to their service year.