SPEC Kit 349: Evolution of Library Liaisons · 195
UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST
UMass Amherst Libraries Librarian Engagement Framework: moving forward
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Framework Values
Librarianship is collaborative by nature. The Libraries are an important hub, serving as the intellectual
nexus of the campus, engaging with our communities, and connecting them to a wealth of resources
and services, and to one another. Collections and services evolve through collaborations and
relationships. Above all, this Framework is dedicated to outreach, advocacy, and engagement,
supporting the campus goal of making UMass Amherst a destination and investment of choice. The
values that inform this Program include:
Commitment to people, to a diversity of ideas, groups, and individuals, and to the
communities that comprise the University of Massachusetts and the Commonwealth
Commitment to knowledge, intellectual freedom, life-long learning, and the principles of
higher education
Commitment to our profession, placing a value on our integrity, high level of service, and our
professional values and ethics
Commitment to one another, expressed through an inclusive and collaborative work
environment that prizes flexibility, innovation, creativity, personal initiative, and persistence.
Commitment to embracing change by seeking out, learning about, and trying out new ideas
and technologies, in order to enrich and improve the education experience of our community
and ourselves.
Framework Outline
Outreach, advocacy, and engagement are the guiding principles and overarching foci of the
Framework and are expected of all librarians. Responsibilities and core activities include:
Initiating and facilitating ongoing dialog with faculty and students about resource needs
and service expectations.
Communicating regularly with faculty, students, and staff to develop and maintain strong
and productive working relationships.
Speaking knowledgeably about and promoting library services and issues.
Keeping current on curricular initiatives and proposed programmatic changes.
Working closely with faculty and students to understand their changing workflows and
patterns of scholarly communication.
Using data to inform support for faculty and students
Best practice examples:
o Meeting regularly (at least once per semester) with faculty in assigned areas.
o Participating in department meetings, activities, and events such as seminars, colloquia,
and conferences.
o Seeking professional development opportunities in areas of specialization (e.g.,
participating in scholarly societies and associations).
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