Hello All! I've started in a few libraries (two public and one academic) and at different points in my career. At my first library, I started as a paraprofessional in my early 20s. I started with a small cohort of others hired at the same time, and honestly those became some of my closest friends at that workplace. I became roommates with one of them a few years later and we still talk often! I became close with almost everyone in that library (small/midsize system) and was very quick to volunteer for any social opportunities (small committees/task forces, social groups, lunches, etc.) and sought out a niche for myself. If you do come in with a specialty area (i.e. teen services, research, etc.) it's great to let that be known, and try to focus in that area- but also be open to other projects. In my experience, there is usually another librarian/library worker with similar interests so it's important to develop a relationship, but also respect their knowledge and work in that area (particularly if they have worked in that library longer than you have).
These relationships will also be different if you are brought into a library as a manager/supervsior or later in your career. You may have been hired because of your knowledge, and may need to change systems. This may bring up some challenging feelings in your new staff or colleagues.
In any situation, I agree with Janina- these things take time! Libraries, like the world, are made up of all kinds of different personalities. Some are very open to change, new colleagues, etc. And some take a little while to warm up! I think putting yourself in places where brainstorming is encouraged is also very valuable. Like Janina, some of my favorite interactions have been after trainings or meetings when people are talking about ideas- this is a great environment for relationship and project building.
I also understand that socializing and making connections can be challenging for some. This is not my journey, but I think that we can also keep in mind that not everyone is at work to become friends, per se. There can be very healthy relationships between colleagues that you wouldn't necessarily seek out as friends, or continue your relationship past the workpalce, and that's OK too! This outlook has taken me time to mature into, as an adult some of my closest friends have been made at work, but not everyone is at work for these types of connections. I have learned to be a helpful collegue and created working relationships by being a supportive and helpful coworker. These qualities can be gained by work experience and by sitting back and noticing who in your workplace is not only productive, but also sought out for their opinions and guidance. Hope this helps!
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Morgan Brickey-Jones
Director of Community Engagement
University of Texas At Arlington
She/Her/Hers
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Original Message:
Sent: Dec 03, 2024 09:28 AM
From: Melissa Herzberg
Subject: Connecting with Colleagues
Hello NMRT Members!
The NMRT Online Programs Committee encourages your input on this month's discussion topic!
Starting a new job as a librarian can be both exciting and daunting. One of the key aspects of settling into a new role is building connections with your colleagues. What strategies have you found effective for making connections in a new workplace?
Please share your responses, so we can help each other navigate the early stages of the profession!
Warmly,
Melissa
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Melissa Herzberg
Instructional Design Librarian
The University of Alabama
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