Our Enduring Values Revisited

June 15, 2015

This book is for anyone who has questioned their decision to become a librarian, been asked why anyone should follow the career, or if libraries are still relevant. Former American Library Association (ALA) president Gorman (former dean of library services, California State Univ., Fresno; Our Enduring Values) addresses core reasons why libraries and librarians exist and why they will continue to be vital in maintaining the human record and combating the erosion of rational discourse. The values the author discusses transcend library type, making this text as relevant to children's librarians as it is to academic library administrators. The title's "enduring" is fitting because it reminds librarians to keep seemingly constant change in perspective and appreciate how much has stayed the same over time. Even as advancements in technology increase access to a vast amount of information, nothing replaces the work of librarians or the physical collections of libraries. While many libraries are actively telling their individual stories to secure funding and community support, Gorman's book paints a larger picture that will make librarians feel proud of their profession. VERDICT Librarians at any stage of their career will appreciate the perspective provided about librarianship of the past, present, and future.--Kendra Auberry, Indian River State Coll. Lib., Port St. Lucie, FL

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