The Library Workforce: What Deans/Directors need to know

Abstract

Under the conference sub-theme of preparing the workforce and skills development, this paper identifies and discusses some key human resource (HR) drivers for the academic library workforce of the 21st century. The value of strategic workforce planning is identified, and strategies around learning and development, appreciation and celebration, relationship building and collaboration, and conversation and communication are discussed. Case experiences from the University Library at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) provide practical examples for the consideration of dean/directors and other library leaders charged with the responsibility of preparing the workforce and skills development.