Coordinator, Circulation Services Hesburgh Libraries, University of Notre Dame
More than ever before, academic libraries are relying upon student employees to fill service gaps and supplement staffing shortages. However, training and engaging student staff has its own unique set of challenges. From high turnover rates, to the limited number of hours students work each week, to the staff time it takes to train them, this process can often be difficult for libraries and student managers alike.
The program will outline some unique ideas for increasing library student employee training, engagement, and retention that have worked in the Circulation Services Unit of the University of Notre Dame's Hesburgh Libraries. We will discuss how a tiered training system, weekly upskilling, and gamification can improve student employee performance and impact. The session will touch on opportunities to blend library workplace learning with students' larger professional development goals, as well as methods to decrease student employee turnover. Finally, there will be some examples of creative and fun activities that can assist with amplifying students' investment in their job at the library.
Learning Objectives:
Explain how student employee engagement activities and training can help increase job retention
Identify the components of a successful student employee training program
Visualize how gamification can be used to enhance student employee training
Adapt aspects of the training model or engagement activities presented to fit their own library's needs
