Discussion of the criteria of professionalism, and four ways that librarians fail to attain professional status: they are often subordinate to their patrons; the esoteric knowledge in the field is unimpressive; they lack a highly exclusive professional association; and they have a poor public image. (LS)

Provides a brief history of the life of Melvil Dewey, describing his many accomplishments in several diversified areas. Fourteen references are listed. (CHC)

Suggests that, although the characteristics of librarianship are definitely those of a profession, in practice many libraries actually operate under a nonprofessional or bureaucratic organizational model. The hypothetical experiences of an entry-level librarian are considered, and an alternative vision of a professional model is offered. (EAM)