Career Coaching Bob Watson 2008-04-14T20:41:46Z 2008-04-14T20:41:46Z

We offer class/course reimbursements and do encourage people to take whatever work seems useful to them. We&#039;ve a luxury inasmuch as we belong to an active library system in Illinois &#040;NSLS&#041; that makes such available, plus access to paraprofessional coursework at the local community college. <br /><br />One point to be made, though, has to do with making sure that continuing education is a part of annual expectations ... not so much as to be onerus but as something easily accomplished in order to qualify for a bit more money. A class taken during work hours could qualify.<br /><br />Another point, though, has to be made ... staff need to know that administration is also reading/taking courses/stretching. If I do not, how can I expect them to?<br /><br />As to your other question ... I want someone who is smarter than me who has experience &#040;and aptitude&#041; with new technology. I also want him/her broadly read and curious but w/o any condescending attitude. <br /><br />We are, necessarily, public intellectuals if we&#039;re to get our work &#040;and our library&#039;s work&#041; done. But, given America&#039;s cultural phobia about pointy&#045;headed&#045;overly&#045;educated types we have to be sneaky about it. &#059;&#045;&#041;

Bob Watson 2008-04-14T20:41:46Z Meg Timour 2008-04-14T18:20:47Z 2008-04-14T18:20:47Z

Hello!<br /><br />I&#039;m a graduate student in the School of Information Resources &amp; Library Science at the University of Arizona. This semester one of my courses is in Library Management, and this week we&#039;re discussing issues related to Human Resources. I&#039;m curious to know how various libraries promote staff development. <br /><br />At your library, what kind of incentives exist to motivate staff to acquire additional skills that will help them become better para&#045;professionals and/or librarians? &#040;reimbursement for expenses, time off with/without pay, opportunities to negotiate a better salary, etc.&#041;.<br /><br />A secondary, related question is what skills, experience, qualifications would your ideal applicant possess? &#040;in addition to an MLS and excellent customer service skills&#041;.<br /><br />Thank you for your help!<br /><br />&#045;Meg Timour Beer<br />mtimour@email.arizona.edu

Meg Timour 2008-04-14T18:20:47Z