Formalizing an Informal Process

Abstract

In 1993, professionals at the University of Delaware Library initiated a formal mentoring program. Turnover and additions of professional positions had produced rapid changes in the composition of the staff during the 1980's. Many staff members faced the challenges of becoming active in professional organizations and fulfilling the requirements for promotion. Although informal mentoring partnerships already existed, the staff thought that it would be useful to formalize these relationships in a library-wide mentoring program. A committee was formed to evaluate mentoring programs at other institutions, and then present potential models to the staff for development to fit the Library's needs. The resulting three-tiered program has helped professional staff members receive orientation to the Library's corporate culture, obtain advice on promotion preparation, and learn about opportunities for profession al growth in the field of librarianship.