t he p ros and p itfalls of c ross -t raining amy beckham osborne university of kentucky college of...
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THE PROS AND PITFALLS OF CROSS-TRAININGAmy Beckham Osborne
University of Kentucky College of Law Library
LOOKING TOWARD CROSS TRAINING
Why cross-train? Where is cross-training being done? Cross-training and Law Libraries Pros Pit-falls
WHY CROSS-TRAIN
Improve productivity Alleviate boredem May be more efficient than brining in new
hires Improve moral Maintain a flexible attitude Breaks down the “us versus them” mentality Counteract short-term/long-term leaves of
absence
MILITARY
Exemplifies working as a unit Everyone pitches in to get the job done Work together as a unit
IMPLEMENTING A CROSS TRAINING PROGRAM – THE DO’S
Who should be cross trained? Identify the skills needed for the position Look at list of employees’ proficiencies Can be formal or informal Make the cross training fair Evaluate the program to ensure continued
effectiveness Make sure program meets the institutional
needs
CROSS-DEPARTMENTAL EXCHANGE
Positional Clarification Positional Sharing Positional Rotation
IMPLEMENTING A CROSS TRAINING PROGRAM – THE DON’TS
Do not cross train just one department Can be done over a long period of time
FROM THE TOP DOWN OR FROM THE BOTTOM UP?
Where should cross training begin? Everyone needs to buy-in and participate
CROSS TRAINING AND LAW LIBRARIES
Circulation Processing - Mail Loose-leaf filing Basic Reference Simple computer tasks
INFORMAL SURVEY
20 Libraries contacted – 16 responded
“All of our librarian, despite their responsibilities must sit at least one shift at the reference desk. It is important that everyone understandsthat everything we do affects how we help our patrons”
Anonymous Library Director
PROS
Less down time Familiarity Environment of collaboration – team
approach Environment of upward mobility Reduce workload in overworked areas Boost morale Increases job knowledge
CAN CROSS TRAINING BENEFIT YOUR LIBRARY?