jfconsultIn 2014, I began hearing a common concern from library support staff: “How do I move forward in my career?” Many felt stuck, unsure of their opportunities for growth, and in some cases discouraged by organizational changes that seemed to limit their paths.
Rather than allow frustration to linger, I saw an opportunity to empower staff with tools to reframe their career mindset. Drawing from my Master’s in Training & Development, I developed the Career Development Mentorship Program — a nine-month initiative designed to help non-managerial staff grow personally and professionally.
Program Goals
The program was built to:
- Create a safe environment where staff could voice concerns and explore career aspirations.
- Equip participants with career development tools such as personality assessments, SWOT analysis, and goal-setting frameworks.
- Encourage participants to think beyond immediate frustrations and refocus on personal growth, transferable skills, and long-term career goals.
- Produce tangible outcomes such as personalized career plans, resumes, and vision boards.
The Participants
Eight staff members applied for the inaugural cohort. Seven met eligibility criteria — they were all non-managerial support staff with at least one year of service and no MLS degree.
Participants represented various branches and departments across the library system:
- 4 from Circulation
- 2 from Technical Services
- 1 from Youth Services
Their motivations were clear: many sought confidence, career advancement, or a renewed sense of purpose. Several expressed feelings of stagnation in their current roles and hoped the program would help them grow personally and professionally.
Program Design
The program blended monthly 2.5-hour workshops with an online learning community, hosted on GroupSpaces. Topics included:
- Career & Personality Assessments (MBTI, Holland Codes)
- Career Research & Decision-Making
- SMART Goal Setting
- Personal SWOT Analysis & Mission Statements
- Resume & Cover Letter Development
- Vision Board Creation
Participants also engaged in journaling, peer discussions, and mock interviews. Guest speakers shared perspectives from across the library profession, giving mentees direct access to experienced leaders.
Outcomes & Impact
By the end of the program, participants reported:
- Greater clarity about their career direction and options.
- Improved confidence in their ability to pursue promotions or lateral moves.
- A stronger sense of connection and engagement with their organization.
- Tangible tools including updated resumes, personal mission statements, and career plans.
One participant reflected:
“You helped me re-discover me. You showed me that things like going back to school are possible. I could never thank you enough!”
Another shared:
“The whole process was memorable because it forced me to look at things for what they are, then decide what I wanted to change and how to change it.”
While some mentees acknowledged systemic barriers (such as degree requirements for advancement), most walked away with practical tools and renewed motivation to continue their growth.
Lessons Learned
The mentorship program highlighted key insights for libraries everywhere:
- Non-MLS staff need structured pathways to feel valued and see growth potential.
- Safe spaces matter. Staff are more willing to engage when they know their voices are heard and respected.
- Mentorship builds resilience. Even in organizations with rigid structures, career development helps staff refocus on what they can control.
Looking Ahead
For libraries seeking to strengthen retention and morale, mentorship programs are an underused yet powerful tool. They provide staff with the support, structure, and encouragement to reframe their career mindset — benefiting not only individuals but the library as a whole.
This case study is based on the 2016 Career Development Mentorship Program I designed and facilitated. Today, I help libraries create their own mentorship frameworks through consulting and workshops.
👉 Want to design a mentorship program for your library staff? [Schedule a Consultation]
