CORE COMPETENCIES FOR LIBRARIANS
PREAMBLE
These competencies pertain to the delivery of services to all ages,
to all constituencies, and for all types of libraries. Competencies are
the skills, technical knowledge and personal attributes that enable individuals
to contribute positively to their organizations and the library profession.
These Core Competencies apply to all librarians. Companion documents
have been created to focus on the specific skills needed for specialized
areas of librarianship. Throughout this document the terms patron, user,
and customer are used interchangeably.
This document is intended for several purposes:
- To educate communities, governing bodies and funding agencies
about the importance of the knowledge and skills of professional librarians.
- To develop job descriptions and evaluation tools for professional positions.
- To design policies, particularly as these policies relate to the organization
and staffing of libraries.
- To guide students attending graduate library school.
- To apprise library school faculty who are involved in the development
of curricula of the continuously changing needs of the profession.
- To assist in planning staff development programs.
- To motivate professionals to take responsibility for managing the development
of one’s own career.
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to excellent customer service.
- Recognizes and addresses the diverse nature of the library's patrons
and community.
- Understands and supports the culture and context of the library and,
if applicable, its parent institution.
- Demonstrates knowledge of the library system and the library profession.
- Understands the social, political, and economic context in which the
library exists.
- Demonstrates knowledge of library and information science theory, information
creation, organization, and delivery.
- Adheres to the Code of Ethics of the American Library Association.
- Exhibits leadership skills including critical thinking, risk taking,
and creativity, regardless of position within the management structure.
- Demonstrates commitment to working with others to achieve common goals.
- Acts within the organization to implement the principles of knowledge
management.
- Exhibits an understanding of the importance of a multidisciplinary and
cross-functional approach to programs and projects within the organization.
- Monitors and implements changes in technology and information systems.
- Shares knowledge and expertise with users and colleagues.
- Displays excellent communication skills and is able to promote the library
and advocate for its needs.
- Communicates effectively with publishers and other information providers
to advance the interests of the library.
- Recognizes the value of professional networking and actively participates
in professional associations.
- Actively pursues personal and professional growth through continuing
education.
Adapted from the American Association of Law Libraries’ Competencies
for Law Librarianship
Approved by NJLA Professional Development Committee February 28, 2006;
Approved by the NJLA Executive Board March 14, 2006
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