The Mission Statement of the University of Florida Smathers Libraries strongly supports the staff development program, which has been part of the Libraries’ strategic plan since 1996. The George A. Smathers Libraries’ mission statement for 2000-2001 lists as one of its strategies, “To increase training and self-directed study opportunities which will equip library staff with skills they need to work effectively in the electronic environment.”
The Vision Statement, which supports serious library research by faculty and students, places emphasis on computer skills, stating that “it will be impossible to be a Smathers Libraries staff member without even greater skill.”
It continues by stating, “The pace of technological change will continue to accelerate and compel high expenditure of staff time for training and self-directed study in technology, management and communication.” (Vision Statement 2002, page 3).
Goal 4.13 under “Manage the Libraries Effectively” is “The Staff Development Program will offer … workshops to lay the ground work for the Libraries’ future plans for an organizational review.” Planning documents for the 2001-2002 Mission, Vision and Strategic Plan are currently in place. Using the Balanced Scorecard approach as a tool, the Libraries’ new strategic objectives were approached using four different perspectives for each one:
The new objectives are:
The innovation and learning perspective requires a greater role for the staff development program in the future endeavors of the Libraries for increasing quality consciousness, learning improved customer service techniques, acquiring a better knowledge of university governance, procedures and committees, and acquiring a better understanding of marketing library services.
*Training reinforces what we want for each individual: continuous learning, application of learning.
The Information Technology Competency Series is a good example of a “best practice” in the Libraries. The ongoing development of electronic competencies of UF Libraries staff is a high priority. Learning technology skills and acquiring knowledge in appropriate areas is vital in keeping library staff informed and effective in performing job tasks. An additional benefit for the Libraries and for the staff is that the staff have the opportunity to share their expertise with their colleagues. The Staff Development Committee has defined three levels of information technology competencies:
Level 1: Library expectations for job performance requires that all staff be uniformly trained within the first six months of employment. Supervisors, therefore, can expect that staff will demonstrate competence in basic computer skills. This includes a general awareness of computers systems and applications used throughout the libraries to perform staff functions as well as services to library users, basic Windows functionality, familiarity with the Libraries Website, including the Library Staff Toolbox, ability to use Microsoft Outlook, including Calendar, Email and the public folders, internet basics, ability to use a web browser, etc. Level 1 workshops are offered quarterly, as part of new staff orientation but all staff are welcome to participate.
Level 2: this level of competency is based on job function. It is defined in individual position descriptions, annual assignments and discussed with the supervisor. Examples includes a working knowledge of the technical mode and/or public mode of LUIS, OCLC, RLIN and other systems, ability to design web pages, familiarity with file transfer protocols, etc. workshops offered at this level include Web Design, PowerPoint and Excel. Level III: As appropriate to each assignment, staff may be expected to perform at the expert level in one or more level 2 competency and serve as a resource for the rest of the staff for providing training and/or assistance. (Note: volunteer trainers have reached this level of competency, teaching such workshops as Excel and Web Design).
The Library has recently joined the Campus-wide training initiative, UF Computer Challenge. Computer Challenge gives university employees some recommended structure when pursuing their information technology training goals. The series involves there tracks: End User/Desktop Skills Certificate, IT Provider Certificate and a specifically designed certificate (the Libraries will offer a Library Track Certificate). The Libraries is making available its trainers and computer training room to the rest of campus in participating in this program.
Prepared by: Trudi Di Trolio, Staff Development Officer