SPEC Kit 344: Talent Management · 25
The MLS or MIS is critical for most positions. For certain positions we will accept a PhD in lieu of MLS, but importance of
PhD, JD, and other credentials is entirely dependent on the requirements of individual positions.
These requirements are very position dependent, and are required less frequently than in the past. It is not uncommon
for us to develop our own experts from within the existing staff.
This is very specific to the job (even within the “librarian” category) so it is hard to generalize.
Varies by position as to importance of academic credentials vs. experience.
7. Which of the following onboarding activities does your library undertake in order to orient and
socialize new hires? Check all that apply. N=51
New employee orientation to the library 50 98%
New employee orientation to the university/institution 49 96%
Functional training to new employees 41 80%
Formal mentorship program for new employees 29 57%
Sponsored social events 29 57%
Networking opportunities to new employees 28 55%
Other staff pairing such as job shadowing, coaching, etc. 20 39%
Other onboarding activity 11 22%
Please briefly describe the other onboarding activity. N=11
Assigning a buddy to a new librarian to help them navigate in the first few months.
Consortium (TRLN) orientation
Department orientation
For new faculty, 1-on-1 meetings with Sr. Associate University Librarian to thoroughly orient to rank and status (P&T)
process and expectations. Typically these monthly meetings take 6–7 months.
New employee checklist
New employee tour
New Faculty Mentoring Program
Require participation in university’s new employee orientation and encourage participation in campus activities.
Staff sharing
Tour of Libraries (9 total)
Tours of various library departments are regularly offered on an ongoing basis, to any employees who wish, but are
especially aimed at new employees.
8. What is the greatest challenge your library has with regards to onboarding of new staff? N=31
A significant part of the onboarding falls to department chairs who approach this differently. The quality varies.
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