Can Non-librarians Work in the Library?

The wonderful world of librarianship has its beginnings intertwined with the very origins of creating written treasures. But did you know that the early champions of this field weren't just librarians? Among them were skilled scribes who took breaks from their busy tasks to care for precious clay tablets and delicate parchment scrolls in the libraries of ancient times.

Why is training non-librarian staff essential? Believe it or not, there is a shortage of librarians in the world. One reason is that people think the work is boring, so they don’t study library science. But the thing is, there are many many libraries containing a wealth of information (that has not been digitized yet) we can’t live without.

The solution is to start training non-librarian staff. Here are some things to consider.

Expanding the Skill Sets
One of the key to training non-librarian staff is expanding the skill sets of these professionals (sometimes called paralibrarians). By identifying their individual strengths and interests, each staff member can undergo professional development tailored for library work.

Training can include workshops and webinarson topics such as research techniques, cataloging, digital literacy, or information management. By equipping the staff with new skills, they become more confident and efficient in their roles, ultimately improving the library’s overall effectiveness.

Mentoring and Guidance

Recognizing the importance of mentorship, I have been implementing a mentoring program for paralibrarians. Through regular one-on-one sessions, I provide guidance, support, and a safe space for staff members to discuss their challenges and goals.

This mentoring program fosters professional growth, encourages innovation, and helps non-librarian staff develop a deeper understanding of library principles and best practices. It also promotes a culture of collaboration and mutual learning within the library.

Training non-librarian staff is worth the cash investment. Also, it may be difficult to find licensed librarians because of the low number of library science graduates in the world. In particular, it may be difficult to find licensed librarians who want to teach.

Cross-Training Initiatives
To encourage a holistic understanding of library operations, I initiate cross-training opportunities for non-librarian staff. By exposing them to different library departments and functions, such as circulation, acquisitions, or outreach, the staff gain a broader perspective of the library’s inner workings.

This training not only enhances skills but also encourages a sense of camaraderie and cooperation among staff members from various backgrounds. It breaks down silos and encourages a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving and service delivery.

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