Reference Archivist Onboarding Checklist

Reference Archivist Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Reference Archivist 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 Reference Archivist, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Reference Archivist onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Reference Archivist Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to the company: The new reference archivist should be provided with a comprehensive introduction to the library, its mission, values, and organizational structure. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated supervisor.

2. Orientation to the library’s collections: The reference archivist should receive a detailed orientation to the library’s collections, including an overview of the different types of materials, their organization, and any unique aspects or special collections. This task is usually performed by a senior reference archivist or a subject specialist librarian.

3. Familiarization with archival policies and procedures: The new reference archivist should be given a thorough understanding of the library’s archival policies and procedures, including guidelines for accessioning, processing, and preserving materials. This task is typically performed by the head of the archives department or a senior archivist.

4. Training on archival software and systems: The reference archivist should receive training on any specialized archival software and systems used by the library, such as collection management systems or digital preservation tools. This task is usually performed by the library’s IT department or a designated systems librarian.

5. Introduction to reference services: The new reference archivist should be introduced to the library’s reference services, including the different methods of providing assistance to patrons, such as in-person, email, or phone. They should also be familiarized with any reference tools or resources commonly used in the library. This task is typically performed by the head of reference services or a senior reference librarian.

6. Shadowing experienced archivists: The new reference archivist should have the opportunity to shadow experienced archivists in order to observe and learn best practices in reference and archival work. This task is usually coordinated by the head of the archives department or a senior archivist.

7. Introduction to preservation techniques: The reference archivist should receive training on preservation techniques for different types of materials, including proper handling, storage, and conservation methods. This task is typically performed by a preservation specialist or a senior archivist.

8. Familiarization with copyright and intellectual property laws: The new reference archivist should be provided with an overview of copyright and intellectual property laws relevant to archival materials, including fair use, permissions, and restrictions. This task is usually performed by a legal counsel or a designated copyright specialist.

9. Collaboration with other library departments: The reference archivist should be introduced to other library departments and encouraged to collaborate with them on projects or initiatives that involve archival materials. This task is typically coordinated by the head of the archives department or a senior librarian.

10. Ongoing professional development: The new reference archivist should be encouraged to engage in ongoing professional development activities, such as attending conferences, workshops, or webinars related to archival and reference work. This task is usually supported by the library’s professional development committee or a designated supervisor

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Reference Archivist checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Reference Archivist 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.