{"id":41247,"date":"2014-08-22T12:12:53","date_gmt":"2014-08-22T17:12:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/inalj.com\/?p=41247"},"modified":"2014-08-22T12:10:56","modified_gmt":"2014-08-22T17:10:56","slug":"should-you-accept-that-job-with-the-unattractive-pay-scale","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/inalj.com\/?p=41247","title":{"rendered":"Should You Accept That Job with the Unattractive Pay Scale?"},"content":{"rendered":"

by Kristen Jaques, former Head Editor, INALJ Maine<\/a>
\n<\/a>previously published 9\/30\/13<\/em><\/p>\n

Should You Accept That Job with the Unattractive Pay Scale?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"kristen<\/a>When browsing through library job postings, it is easy to see that jobs for librarians vary greatly in pay.\u00a0 Narrow it down to entry level jobs suitable for the newly-minted librarian, and you will come across jobs that pay under $30,000 a year (or insert the lowest possible going rate for jobs in your geographic area).\u00a0 You might think to yourself \u201cThat\u2019s impossible! How could that even be worth considering?\u201d As someone who initially dismissed and avoided such job postings, but then ended up applying, interviewing, and accepting such a position, I\u2019m glad I took the risk.<\/strong><\/p>\n

It\u2019s no secret that money factors heavily into many of the decisions we make in our lives, including which job opportunities we are willing to pursue.\u00a0 Living on a very modest income is not an option for everyone. However, if you evaluate your own situation thoroughly, especially if you are young and have no dependents, you might find that you are in a position where you can make it work financially. <\/b>I hate to see librarians paid less than they are worth, but it is an undeniable reality in our profession.\u00a0 These jobs can give you a great opportunity to begin working and growing in your career, and will increase your future marketability.\u00a0 As with all things, it is vital to be open and adaptable.<\/p>\n

I have been with my employer for almost three years.\u00a0 While I have a low income, and substantial student loan debt, I have identified my resources, and feel like I am generally able to meet my own needs, and do not want for much. \u00a0Here are some questions that might guide you in determining whether this type of situation will be doable:<\/p>\n