This online, on-the-job training program is designed for
people who work in libraries as support staff,
library assistants and associates, and technicians. The program is also
appropriate for individuals who serve in specialized support functions
in such libraries, including public relations, web development, human resources, or for members of a library board of trustees.
The class offers the opportunity to explore
some of the "big picture" issues in libraries beyond the specific tasks
of the everyday job. The program includes an overview of library
values, functions, and practices; an understanding of how each function
fits into the mission and processes of the library; support for the
development of excellent service skills; and the chance to consider
your own performance and your library's operation within the broader
context of best library practices. You will have the chance to interact
with staff from a wide variety of institutions and learn how other
libraries are addressing the business of libraries today. Assignments
in the class often involve exploring how your own library implements
policies and practices in the different areas we cover.
This
program was originally developed with a 2002 National Leadership Grant
from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and in partnership
with the New York Public Library and Rutgers University Libraries.
The training program includes the following topics:
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Introduction.
An introduction to how the online program works; a chance to get to
know the other people in the class; a discussion of library
organizations and of library staff and their roles in libraries.
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Effectiveness on the Job.
An opportunity to
consider personal work habits and improve competencies in the areas of
time management, communication, teamwork and conflict resolution,
meeting participation, and problem solving.
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Library Foundations.
Brief
history of libraries; types of academic and research libraries;
organizations that serve libraries; principles and values in the
library community such as The Library Bill of Rights and Code of
Ethics; library missions; networks and consortia.
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Technology in Libraries.
Understanding operating
systems, hardware of various types, software, and databases; how to
troubleshoot computer problems; LANs; WANs; the internet and its
history, a description of its current state, using search engines;
email and internet use policies.
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Library Collections.
Collection development;
circulation functions
including reserves, circulation systems, confidentiality of records,
statistics, interlibrary loan and document delivery, and noncirculating
collections; stack maintenance; copyright and plagiarism; special
collections; preservation, including materials composition, storage and
handling, preservation programs and treatments.
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Providing Access to Information.
How we store
information and bibliographic information; integrated library systems;
bibliographic control; serials; descriptive cataloging; authority
control; MARC; subject access to collections; metadata.
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Public Services.
Discussion of what constitutes
public services in a library; types of library users; service policies;
model behaviors at a service desk; appropriate levels of information;
tips for dealing with difficult people; intercultural communication;
the reference process; the research process; library instruction;
exhibits and events.
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Digital Libraries.
Defining what digital library
activities are; what is involved in acquiring, describing, providing
access to, and preserving items in digital libraries; creating
collections; accessing digital resources; understanding the impact of
digital libraries.
Within each module major trends are also covered.
The online library assistant training program for library
assistants in academic and research libraries is generally offered each
fall and spring semester. For details about current offerings, visit http://www.scils.rutgers.edu/professional-development/online-library-assistant-training-program.html.
