RE: Staffing a digital branch?

2009-09-15T22:17:47Z

"How do I manage a digital branch if I'm alone? or in a small library, where I have enough trouble keeping the physical library running?"

Start small, focus on 1-2 things you'd like to do, then re-assess. Also prioritize - what do your customers want? Then do those things - the non-priority stuff will fall by the wayside ... and that's ok.

"do you have dedicated branch staff who are handling daily affairs - dig ref, trouble shooting, content management?"

Yes and no. I have 2 full-time web developers that build the site and troubleshoot. The rest of the library develops content. Staff at one of our reference desks are also responsible for handling email reference. Our telephone reference desk also does the IM ref stuff. Someone in our marketing department handles Facebook and Twitter. So it's really a mix.

"David-do you manage the computer network team and catalog implementation people. If not, how do you relate to that unit."

Yes I do manage them. I'm spoiled that way :-) But the way to relate to them? Just like you would any other unit. Be kind. Understand their needs. Don't get defensive. Etc.

"Is the staff for digital library dedicated only to the digital side or [[[do they also do in-person service?]]]"

Both. Our "digital-only staff" (ie., the web dudes) also work the helpdesk, sometimes help patrons with techie-type questions (once ina great while), and teach classes to staff.

Our content providers ((ie., public services staff) DO work the desk and teach classes.

Staffing a digital branch?

2009-09-15T20:19:55Z

This question came up a couple times, especially after David said he has 8 people in his department in the Building the Digital Branch for the 21st Century webinar.

"How do I manage a digital branch if I'm alone? or in a small library, where I have enough trouble keeping the physical library running?"

"do you have dedicated branch staff who are handling daily affairs - dig ref, trouble shooting, content management?"

"David-do you manage the computer network team and catalog implementation people. If not, how do you relate to that unit."

"Is the staff for digital library dedicated only to the digital side or [[[do they also do in-person service?]]]"