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| Format: | Recurso educativo Open Access |
| Language: | en |
| Published: |
1994
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED378987 |
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Table of Contents:
- The Benefits of Continuing Education for Public Service Support Staff in Academic Libraries in the State of Ohio. Ball, Mary Kathryn Academic Libraries Comparative Analysis Competence Continuing Education Higher Education Individual Development Inservice Education Job Training Library Administration Library Personnel Library Services Productivity Professional Development Staff Development Surveys Support staff of circulation, reference, interlibrary loan, media services, special collections, information, and reserves make up a large portion of library work forces, and each year are asked to take on more tasks, many requiring advanced skills. This study determined: (1) if there is an actual need for continuing education for support staff; and (2) how to meet these needs. A 26-question survey, covering professional competence, patron service, relationships with colleagues, and personal development was sent to public service support staffs in Ohio academic libraries. Ninety-one employees responded (60% return rate), and rated participating in continuing education as being "very important" in order to improve their knowledge or skills of library activities (88%); to develop new professional knowledge and skills (85%); to keep abreast of new developments in the position (74%); to accommodate more effectively the needs of the patrons (71%); to become more competent at work (67%); and to become more productive (67%). The results, compared with an earlier similar study, show that support staffs want and need continuing education. Recommendations to administrators include: improving communication and encouragement, being sensitive to employees' needs, offering in-service programs, and supporting workshop and conference attendance. Survey data is presented in nine tables, and appendices include copies of the questionnaire, letter to public service support staff members, letter of permission, and written survey comments. (Contains 13 references.) (MAS)