We are thinking of starting a mentoring program for library personnel in Utah. Here’s what I have in mind. Please let me know what you feel are the most important issues.
Trading Spaces Mentoring Program
What are the goals of the Trading Spaces project?
- Developing 21st century skills for all Utah library staff
- Providing collaboration and networking opportunities for those on different levels and among libraries of different sizes and regions
- Supporting greater diversity in the library profession
Who might request a mentor?
- Any library staff member that wants to learn new skills, with the approval of their library director.
Why request a mentor?
- Mentors can be a resource for advice on professional development and how to perform specific library functions.
- Mentors can provide assistance getting involved at both the local and statewide level.
- Mentors can offer different perspectives.
Why be a mentor?
- It looks great on a resume/ cv
- Increase your job satisfaction by helping others grow professionally
- It adds to your professional toolkit
- Develop your communication and teaching skills
- Pass on your professional legacy
- Increase your library’s visibility and value to the library community
How does the program work?
- Participants will submit an application through the USL website: http://library.utah.gov/workshops.
- Upon approval, participants will indicate their choice of institutions to work through for mentorship, and then the committee will confirm availability.
- Once the mentoring agreement is established, it is the responsibility of the participant to contact the mentor to work out meetings and topics for discussion.
Guidelines/Recommendations for Mentors and Mentees
- General
- The program will go from July 1-June 30, yearly. Applications will be accepted quarterly.
- There will be a an online workshop explaining the program and providing details on what to expect.
- Meetings should be planned based on the scope of the project. They can take place in person, by phone, or online.
- For Mentors
- Have working knowledge and experience in the library profession and be willing to share that with others.
- Apply to the committee to become a mentor.
- Indicate how many people you would like to work with in a year.
- Indicate your areas of expertise.
- Track your interactions with mentees on the Trading Spaces online system.
- Receive a mentor certificate upon completion.
- Libraries that sponsor mentors will receive a mentoring certificate and recognition at an annual mentoring event.
- For Participants
- Decide in advance what goals you would like to accomplish
- Apply on the Utah State Library website.
- Value and take advantage of this opportunity.
- Report on your activities/ progress at least monthly. Evaluate your experience at the conclusion.
Finances:
Utah State Library will pay an honorarium of $100 per visit to the institution of those agreeing to mentor others. This is intended to offset expenses and encourage collaboration.
Utah State Library will pay mileage reimbursement to those traveling to other institutions at the standard state rate (50 cents/mile in fy2010). Maximum per year: $1000 per person. Carpooling is encouraged when possible.
Expenses incurred over the above rates will be the responsibility of the individual or their library.
Contact Colleen Eggett, Utah State Library Training Coordinator, if you have any questions. ceggett@utah.gov 801-715-6776 / 800-662-9150 x776
