Research Librarian Onboarding Checklist

Research Librarian Onboarding Process

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

Research Librarian Onboarding Checklist

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

2. Introduction to colleagues: The new research librarian is introduced to their colleagues, including other librarians, library staff, and department heads. This allows them to establish relationships, understand team dynamics, and learn about the roles and responsibilities of their coworkers. This task is usually performed by the supervisor or a designated mentor.

3. Tour of the library: The new research librarian is given a comprehensive tour of the library, including all departments, sections, and resources available. This helps them familiarize themselves with the layout, understand the library’s collections, and locate important areas such as reference desks, circulation desks, and special collections. This task is typically performed by a senior librarian or a designated tour guide.

4. Introduction to library systems and software: The new research librarian receives training on the library’s integrated library system (ILS), digital databases, cataloging software, and other technology platforms used for research and information management. This task is usually performed by the library’s IT department or a designated technology trainer.

5. Familiarization with library policies and procedures: The new research librarian is provided with a comprehensive overview of the library’s policies and procedures, including circulation policies, interlibrary loan procedures, reference services, collection development guidelines, and copyright regulations. This task is typically performed by the library director or a designated policy coordinator.

6. Training on research tools and resources: The new research librarian undergoes training on various research tools and resources, such as online databases, academic journals, e-books, and reference materials. This includes learning how to effectively search, retrieve, and evaluate information to assist library patrons. This task is usually performed by a senior librarian or a designated subject specialist.

7. Introduction to library outreach and programming: The new research librarian is introduced to the library’s outreach initiatives, community engagement programs, and educational workshops. This allows them to understand the library’s role in promoting literacy, organizing events, and collaborating with local organizations. This task is typically performed by the library’s outreach coordinator or a designated programming specialist.

8. Shadowing experienced librarians: The new research librarian shadows experienced librarians to observe their daily tasks, interactions with patrons, and problem-solving techniques. This provides them with practical insights into the role and responsibilities of a research librarian and helps them gain confidence in their own abilities. This task is usually arranged by the supervisor or a designated mentor.

9. Introduction to library committees and professional organizations: The new research librarian is introduced to various library committees and professional organizations they can join to enhance their professional development and stay updated with industry trends. This includes providing information on committee roles, meeting schedules, and opportunities for involvement. This task is typically performed by the library director or a designated committee chair.

10. Performance evaluation and goal setting: The new research librarian participates in a performance evaluation session where they discuss their job performance, receive feedback, and set goals for professional growth. This helps them align their work with the library’s objectives and identify areas for improvement. This task is typically performed by the supervisor or the library director

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

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