Audiovisual Librarian Onboarding Process
Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Audiovisual Librarian starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Library onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Audiovisual Librarian, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Audiovisual Librarian onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.
Audiovisual Librarian Onboarding Checklist
1. Orientation: The new audiovisual librarian should receive a comprehensive orientation to the library, its mission, and its organizational structure. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated staff member who provides an overview of the library’s history, policies, and procedures.
2. Introduction to the audiovisual collection: The librarian should be introduced to the library’s audiovisual collection, including its scope, formats, and cataloging systems. This task is usually performed by a senior librarian or the head of the audiovisual department, who provides an overview of the collection’s organization and highlights key resources.
3. Familiarization with library software: The new librarian should be trained on the library’s software systems, including the integrated library system (ILS) and any specialized software used for audiovisual materials management. This task is typically performed by the library’s IT department or a designated staff member who provides hands-on training and support.
4. Understanding copyright and licensing: The librarian should receive training on copyright laws and licensing agreements related to audiovisual materials. This task is usually performed by the library’s legal department or a designated staff member who provides guidance on copyright compliance, fair use, and obtaining necessary permissions.
5. Learning cataloging and metadata standards: The librarian should be trained on cataloging and metadata standards specific to audiovisual materials, such as MARC (Machine-Readable Cataloging) and Dublin Core. This task is typically performed by a senior librarian or a cataloging specialist who provides guidance on creating accurate and consistent records for audiovisual items.
6. Equipment operation and maintenance: The librarian should receive training on the operation and maintenance of audiovisual equipment, such as projectors, DVD players, and audio recording devices. This task is usually performed by the library’s audiovisual department or a designated staff member who provides hands-on training and troubleshooting support.
7. Collection development and management: The librarian should be familiarized with the library’s collection development policies and procedures, including the selection, acquisition, and weeding of audiovisual materials. This task is typically performed by the head of the audiovisual department or a designated collection development librarian who provides guidance on building and maintaining a relevant and diverse collection.
8. Collaboration with other departments: The librarian should be introduced to key staff members in other departments, such as reference, circulation, and interlibrary loan, to foster collaboration and understanding of their roles in supporting audiovisual services. This task is usually performed by the head librarian or a designated staff member who facilitates introductions and encourages cross-departmental communication.
9. User services and outreach: The librarian should receive training on providing user services and conducting outreach activities related to audiovisual materials, such as assisting patrons with research, organizing screenings or events, and promoting the collection through social media or library newsletters. This task is typically performed by the head of user services or a designated staff member who provides guidance on effective engagement with library users.
10. Professional development opportunities: The librarian should be informed about professional development opportunities, such as conferences, workshops, and webinars, that can enhance their knowledge and skills in audiovisual librarianship. This task is usually performed by the library’s professional development coordinator or a designated staff member who shares information on relevant events and resources
Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process
From reading through the items in the example Audiovisual Librarian checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Audiovisual Librarian up to speed and working well in your Library team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.