New Library Staff

Suggestions for the first few days on the job:

  • Get to know your staff and reassure them. Do you remember what it was like to have a new boss? Your staff feels much the same way as you might have. Try to remain neutral and avoid any negative comments about the way things were done in the past. It's also a good idea to not become involved in staff disputes.
  • Tour the building with staff and schedule time to work with them. It will give you a good feel for how things are done.
  • During this period, you should be spending time acquainting yourself with the staff, the community, and your library.
  • Listen! Ask questions and really listen to the answers. Until you develop a feel for the library and hopefully a good working relationship with your staff and board, you don't want to make any major changes.

Suggestions for the first month:

  • Read through the former director's files and correspondence. It will give you an idea of what has been going on in the past.
  • Review the long-range plan, financial operations and policies.
  • Read through board meeting minutes to get a historical perspective and to have an idea of how much information board members expect.
  • Contact local government personnel.
  • Create a calendar with important dates, such as contract dates, insurance expiration dates, dates of local significance and deadlines.

ASPeN: The New Library Directory

Events Calendar