Onboarding for New Public Library Employees

About This Course

Build a strong foundation with the essentials every new public library worker should know.

Starting a job in a public library can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time working in one. There’s a lot to take in, from new systems and service expectations to the organizational culture and unfamiliar jargon of library work. This self-paced online course offers a comprehensive introduction to public libraries to help new library employees feel more confident in their role. You’ll learn about the core values that shape public library service, the vital role libraries play in their communities, and the wide range of responsibilities held by library staff. The course also teaches introductory customer service skills, effective strategies for handling challenging patron interactions, and the basics of reference assistance. Whether you're brand new or just need a clearer picture of how it all fits together, this course will help you feel more prepared and supported.

NOTE: This course is hosted on our new learning platform. At checkout, you'll be prompted to log in or create an account. If this is your first time using the new platform, you'll need to register a new account. For more information about Library Journal's new learning platform, check out our FAQ.

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