Trends in Internet-Based Library Recruitment

Abstract

ABSTRACT In the past several years, librarians have been turning to the Internet to recruit candidates for open positions. Job announcements make frequent appearances in library-related mailing lists, and the trade publications of the field are increasingly making their classified ads available online. The Internet also seems the perfect venue for employers to research applicants and communicate with their references. Responses to a survey of 70 employers taken during the fall of 1997 illustrate exactly how librarians are using the Internet for recruiting purposes. How successful are Internet-based position announcements in comparison to those placed in print sources? How frequently are electronic resumes accepted? Does posting a position online indicate certain expectations which employers have of candidates? In addition to providing answers to these questions, the results of this survey suggest methods that applicants can use to improve their chances at successfully finding a job online. Finally, this article anticipates the future of online recruitment in the library field and the impact that this will have for employers and jobseekers alike.