Place: Recruiting and Retaining Librarians in Indiana

Abstract

This issue is a collection of articles gathered to help us think about the idea of “place.” If we understand the concept of place physically and metaphorically, we can better encourage new people to join our field. Place can connote a sense of belonging as shown in phrases such as: “This is my place” or “I belong at this place.” There can be changing places, new places, unique places, dangerous places, imaginary places, forgotten places, unknown places, curious places, and more. We have invited writers to help address the idea of place from different perspectives: their own experience, their library’s building as a place, their community, unique collections, historical views of Indiana, etc. There is an underlying wish or theme to help encourage the next generation of librarians and information professionals. We hope readers will leave the issue with a sense of pride in Indiana and in the profession. We hope readers will think about what is unique about their place (of work), and what is their own unique place in the field.