Conference on Academic Library Management

Many managers say they are open to staff feedback. But, are they making the space and providing opportunities for staff to do so? Do library staff trust that they won’t be punished or dismissed? Are only librarians asked for feedback? Does library staff feedback impact strategic planning? Core programs and services? Hiring? What about self and supervisor performance evaluations? This presentation will describe ways to build a culture of continuous feedback within a library team, leveraging the expertise and diverse voices of all staff to improve library operations. The presenter, an academic library director and former middle manager, will provide real-world examples to solicit and act upon library staff feedback in meaningful ways. A variety of settings and tools for soliciting feedback will be covered, including policy development, strategic planning, regular meetings, budgeting, and hiring. Regardless of role within the library or profession, participants will be able to identify and apply ways to incorporate team member feedback into their daily work.