Reference Librarian Onboarding Checklist

Reference Librarian Onboarding Process

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

Reference Librarian Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new reference librarian attends an orientation session to familiarize themselves with the library’s mission, vision, and values. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated orientation coordinator.

2. Introduction to Library Policies and Procedures: The new reference librarian is provided with a comprehensive overview of the library’s policies and procedures, including circulation, collection development, and reference services. This task is usually performed by the library director or a senior librarian.

3. Introduction to Library Systems and Software: The new reference librarian receives training on the library’s integrated library system (ILS), online databases, and other software used for cataloging, circulation, and reference services. This task is typically performed by the library’s IT department or a designated systems librarian.

4. Familiarization with Library Collections: The new reference librarian is given a tour of the library’s physical collections, including the main stacks, special collections, and archives. They are also introduced to the library’s digital collections and online resources. This task is usually performed by a senior librarian or the head of collections.

5. Introduction to Reference Services: The new reference librarian is trained on the various reference services offered by the library, such as in-person assistance, virtual reference, and interlibrary loan. They learn how to use reference tools and resources effectively to assist library patrons. This task is typically performed by the head of reference services or a senior reference librarian.

6. Shadowing Experienced Librarians: The new reference librarian shadows experienced librarians to observe and learn how they provide reference assistance, conduct research, and interact with library patrons. This task is usually coordinated by the head of reference services or a senior librarian.

7. Introduction to Library Outreach and Programming: The new reference librarian is introduced to the library’s outreach initiatives and programming, such as workshops, book clubs, and community events. They learn how to plan and execute library programs to engage and serve the community. This task is typically performed by the head of outreach or a designated programming librarian.

8. Training on Library Policies for Intellectual Freedom and Privacy: The new reference librarian receives training on the library’s policies and procedures related to intellectual freedom, privacy, and confidentiality. They learn how to handle sensitive patron information and adhere to ethical guidelines. This task is usually performed by the library director or a designated privacy officer.

9. Introduction to Library Committees and Professional Development Opportunities: The new reference librarian is introduced to the various library committees they can join, such as the collection development committee or the technology committee. They are also informed about professional development opportunities, such as conferences, workshops, and webinars. This task is typically performed by the library director or a designated committee chair.

10. Performance Evaluation and Goal Setting: The new reference librarian meets with their supervisor to discuss performance expectations, set goals, and establish a timeline for performance evaluations. They receive guidance on how to track their progress and seek professional development opportunities. This task is usually performed by the library director or the head of reference services

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

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