by Sheila Schofer

As spaces full of books, technology, programs, and helpful, knowledgeable staff, people readily recognize libraries as places of learning for the public. Ames Public Library certainly embraces this concept through our mission We Connect You to the World of Ideas. We see ourselves as a learning organization for our community and our employees.

Staff development is a specific focus area identified in the library’s strategic plan. Library staff are involved in continuous learning in a variety of ways, through conferences, community training and online webinars. Being open for service 7 days a week—and from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm most days—does pose a challenge, though, when it comes to bringing staff together for shared learning.

This is why the Library offers Staff Day, a day of learning just for staff, when the building is closed to the public and staff can take over the library for a day of connection, learning and fun. Having time dedicated to group learning helps staff from different work groups connect with peers across the organization and contribute their unique insights and perspectives. There is time to welcome new staff and highlight years-of-service milestones. There are opportunities to recognize hard work and achievements—be it a new multilingual welcome banner, improved access to collections, or a stellar Summer Reading Program.

We can plan for new initiatives like the Memory Lab or brainstorm new strategies for community outreach. It’s also a great opportunity to bring in guest speakers that the entire staff can benefit from.  There have been presentations on topics like fostering diversity, equity and inclusion; creating accessible spaces; and exploring social service supports in the community. Staff take the lead themselves too, presenting at break-out sessions to share updates on team projects or highlighting new software and learning tools.

Library work can be stressful, so we try to work in an element of self-care or share helpful resources.  There is fun incorporated throughout the day with games, scavenger hunts and even a special book cart drill team routine, and we always try to capture a group photo. The day ends with dedicated time for individual workgroups to meet, and the manger team takes care of cleaning and closing up.

In a service-focused organization, staff are your service. Dedicating an entire day to staff development helps demonstrate the value we place on staff, our library’s most valuable asset.