Since the 1950s there has been a persistent shortage of sci-tech librarians, and as more librarians retire or change positions, the prospect looms that the profession will only depopulate further. Tackling this difficult challenge,
Recruiting, Training, and Retention of Science and Technology Librarians
gathers together into one source the perspectives of top library administrators and managers as well as front-line librarians who present the latest research and practical strategies to find, train, and keep those valuable specialized professionals. This book explores in depth timely issues and presents creative perspectives and innovative solutions to this persistent problem in subject-specialized libraries.
As the baby-boom generation of science and technology librarians begins to retire, training and keeping sci-tech librarians will become even more crucial.
discusses the “replacement gap” problem in libraries, including who should be recruited, how they should be trained, and how to retain them once hired. Several authors address the field’s long-standing specialist vs. generalist debate, bringing new data and experience-driven perspectives to this challenging issue.
Topics in
include:
updating the cultural image of librarians to make the profession more appealing
a comprehensive literature review
how to cultivate candidates who are dedicated to service and love research and learning
practical approaches to improve the visibility and attractiveness of science librarianship
the skills and support needed to become a successful science librarian
an innovative program to recruit undergraduates
an in-depth survey of practicing science and technology librarians
the challenges of science librarianship in Africa
library and information science educators as recruiters for sci-tech librarians
creative strategies to recruit and retain librarians
adapting aspects of first-year student retention programs as a model for library retention programs
how professional competencies can be used for recruitment, training, and retention
and more
is a timely, important resource for college and university administrators, and public, special, academic, and government librarians.