SPEC Kit 349: Evolution of Library Liaisons · 153
OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
A Framework for the Engaged Librarian
http://library.osu.edu/staff/administration-reports/Engaged_Librarian_Framework_Dec2011.pdf
The Framework for the Engaged Librarian
presented here draws on the best think-
ing of the Engaged Librarian Framework
Group in the OSU Libraries, and on the
documents on subject librarians and
engaged librarianship developed fi rst by
the University of Minnesota Libraries
(Librarian Position Description Frame-
work) the University of Iowa Libraries
(Iowa Framework for Liaisons/Subject
Librarians) and Duke University Libraries
(Engaging with Library Users: Sharpening
Our Vision as Subject Librarians for the
Duke University Libraries).
This Framework presents the main
categories of engaged librarian responsi-
bilities, and serves to create expectations
for all subject librarians at OSUL (includ-
ing Area Studies and Special Collections
Librarians). The Framework will be used
A Framework for the Engaged Librarian:
Building on our Strengths
UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES
The role of subject librarians in academic libraries continues to evolve
because of the changes occurring throughout higher education—changes
marked by simultaneous hyperspecialization and interdisciplinarity, by
the movement of learning experiences toward the online and the mobile,
and by changes in user behaviors in library spaces, where traditional ref-
erence service is less needed in a time of ubiquitous access to informa-
tion resources, but where greater explanation, context-setting, and inter-
pretation is needed for many library users to make sense of their research
projects within a rapidly changing environment, and where positioning
subject librarian expertise within the workfl ows of users is crucial.
To respond to this environment, The Ohio State University Libraries have
made “engagement” a priority for subject librarians, and Area Studies
and Special Collections Librarians. The kind of deepened involvement
with the academic community envisioned by “engagement” calls for a
new Framework, which presents an organized approach to professional
activity with “engagement” as the linchpin or guiding principle.
to set goals each year for all subject
librarians. Each of the fi ve sections in
the Framework contains a list of com-
petencies. All competencies should
be considered “core” for all subject
librarians, but will be considered
developmental as the Engaged Librar-
ian Model is implemented over time.
In addition, each section has a list of
“best practices” enumerating sample
activities, projects, or behaviors that
illustrate engagement .Subject librar-
ians, in consultation with their division
heads and supervisors, will develop
their list of goals each year, using the
competencies identifi ed, and the best
practices examples as a guide. Their
goals will also be based on disciplinary
distinctions and other aspects of their
assignments.
How the Framework will be Used
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