Discusses the unionization of support staff in academic and public libraries based on experiences in Ohio. Highlights include the legal framework for labor relations; reasons that library support staff are attracted to unions; negotiating the contract with union and library management; and administering the collective bargaining agreement. (10…

In response to national downsizing, Ontario University conducted a study which explored how academic librarians coped with job loss and examined stressful institutional and personal elements (i.e., self-doubt, anger). Results found needs for library's plan to handle position elimination; coordination between library and personnel departments; and…

Discusses the impending shortage of academic librarians as current librarians retire, based on research in Canada and the United States. Topics include experience and expertise; hiring, retention, and professional development; succession planning that includes management experience; chances for advancement into progressively responsible positions;…

Research on the effects of collective bargaining by library clerical workers indicates that effects are often less dramatic than expected, and that there does not appear to be a single "union effect." Although one study found hefty gains for library workers with collective bargaining agreements, other studies have found no significant gains by the…

Traces the history of student academic library employees and reviews the related literature on the changing role of library student assistants. Highlights include changes in libraries' organizational structures; and administrative issues concerning recruitment, interviewing, training, motivation, and employee retention. (LRW)

Arguing that technological change often affects the organizational structure of library workplaces, this paper presents two alternative approaches to the implementation of change in organizational structures, provides several examples of each approach, and suggests related reading materials. It is noted that the configurational approach…

Discussion of recruiting and hiring minorities in academic libraries focuses on steps needed for the retention of these minorities. Highlights include literature search strategies; mentoring systems; networking within and outside the organization; and supervision, including immediate feedback. (Contains 20 references.) (LRW)

Discusses the changing role and responsibilities of middle managers and department heads in large research libraries. Skills and abilities required for effective management and the need for continuing leadership training are outlined. (10 references) (EA)

Library Technical Assistants (LTA's) were the subject of a study designed to focus on four areas: (1) the present status of formal LTA training programs, (2) the present and potential job market, (3) the duties which LTA's perform, and (4) the attitude of the professional librarian toward the LTA. Data were collected from two sources--catalogs of…

Discusses the need for libraries not only to recruit, but also to retain, diverse professional staffs. Topics include diversity as a multi-dimensional concept; creating an environment conducive to retention; ensuring equity in regard to promotion, professional development, and success; the tenure process in academic libraries; and mentoring…

Eight contributed papers given at a general session of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions 1992 annual meeting are presented. These papers deal with a variety of library issues, and are generally, but not exclusively, focused on developing countries. The following papers are included: (1) "Community…