Academic Library Mentoring: Fostering Growth and Renewal, Volume 2: Mentoring of Library Faculty and Librarians

Academic library mentoring is a commitment to the future of library employees, systems, the profession, and higher education's values of exploration, discovery, critical examination, and knowledge generation. Mentoring in academic libraries supports the pursuit of tenure and promotion, career goals, and psychosocial concerns, and addresses diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 322 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2022
Publisher: Association of College & Research Libraries

Academic library mentoring is a profound belief in the future of library employees, systems, the profession, and the principles that libraries uphold. It signifies a commitment to the broader institution and to the values of exploration, discovery, critical examination, and knowledge generation that are central to higher education.

Mentoring in academic libraries involves a structured and supportive relationship between a mentor and a mentee, typically a library faculty member or librarian, who is seeking to develop their skills, knowledge, and professional growth. The mentor provides guidance, advice, and expertise to the mentee, while the mentee gains valuable experience, insights, and a broader understanding of the library profession.

The benefits of academic library mentoring are numerous. For library faculty and librarians, it can help them navigate the complexities of the academic library landscape, develop their leadership skills, and achieve their career goals. Mentoring can also provide a sense of support, camaraderie, and professional development, particularly for those who may be working in isolation or facing challenges in their roles.

For graduate library and information science students, mentoring can be an invaluable opportunity to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and develop a deeper understanding of the library profession. Mentors can provide guidance on job search strategies, resume writing, interview preparation, and professional development opportunities.

Library student employees also benefit from mentoring, as it can help them develop their skills, confidence, and professional identity. Mentors can provide guidance on job responsibilities, time management, and professional development opportunities, as well as offer support and encouragement during their academic journey.

Academic library mentoring is a multifaceted practice that encompasses a range of approaches and models. Some common mentoring models include peer mentoring, where mentees are paired with colleagues who have similar interests or experiences; formal mentoring programmes, where mentees are matched with experienced mentors who provide structured guidance and support; and informal mentoring, where relationships develop organically through informal interactions and discussions.

Mentoring in academic libraries is not limited to individual relationships but can also involve group mentoring, where mentees are grouped together to share experiences, learn from each other, and develop collaborative skills. Group mentoring can be particularly effective in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the library profession, as it allows mentees to connect with individuals from different backgrounds and perspectives.

In addition to providing direct benefits to mentees, academic library mentoring can also have a positive impact on the broader institution and the library profession as a whole. Mentoring programmes can help to foster a culture of professional development, innovation, and collaboration within the library, and can contribute to the growth and renewal of the profession.

To develop effective academic library mentoring programmes, it is important to establish clear goals, objectives, and expectations for both mentors and mentees. This includes identifying the specific skills and knowledge that mentees are seeking to develop, as well as the goals and objectives of the mentoring programme.

Mentoring programmes should also be designed to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the library profession. This includes ensuring that mentors and mentees come from a range of backgrounds and perspectives, and that the programme is accessible to individuals who may face barriers to participation.

In conclusion, academic library mentoring is a vital practice that promotes the growth, development, and renewal of library employees, systems, the profession, and the principles that libraries uphold. By fostering a culture of professional development, innovation, and collaboration, mentoring programmes can help to ensure that the library profession remains relevant and dynamic in an ever-changing world.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780838938973