Starting a new role as an electronic resources librarian requires a clear roadmap to navigate the complexities of digital collections, licensing agreements, and user engagement. This 30-60-90 day plan provides a structured approach to help you set achievable goals, track progress, and integrate effectively within your library team.
By following this plan, you will be able to:
- Understand the library's electronic resources portfolio and workflows
- Develop relationships with vendors, publishers, and internal stakeholders
- Implement best practices for access management and usage analysis
Whether you are transitioning from another library role or entering electronic resources management for the first time, this plan offers a comprehensive guide to help you succeed.
Benefits of a 30-60-90 Day Plan for Electronic Resources Librarians
This plan is designed to:
- Provide a clear framework to prioritize learning and tasks relevant to electronic resources
- Facilitate early engagement with key contacts such as vendors and IT support
- Support the development of technical skills related to electronic resource platforms and analytics
- Enable measurable progress through defined milestones and deliverables
Main Elements of the Plan
The plan is segmented into three 30-day phases, each with specific objectives and tasks:
First 30 Days: Orientation and Assessment
Focus on familiarizing yourself with the library's electronic resources, systems, and policies. Key activities include:
- Reviewing the current electronic resources inventory and licensing agreements
- Meeting with library staff, IT, and vendors to understand workflows and expectations
- Learning access management tools and authentication systems
- Documenting initial observations and identifying knowledge gaps
Days 31-60: Integration and Process Improvement
Begin to take ownership of routine tasks and contribute to process enhancements. Key activities include:
- Managing vendor communications and troubleshooting access issues
- Analyzing usage statistics to inform collection development decisions
- Collaborating with the acquisitions and cataloging teams to streamline workflows
- Developing training materials or guides for library users on electronic resources
Days 61-90: Leadership and Strategic Planning
Focus on strategic initiatives and long-term improvements. Key activities include:
- Leading projects to optimize electronic resource management systems
- Negotiating license renewals and evaluating new resource subscriptions
- Establishing metrics to measure resource performance and user satisfaction
- Presenting findings and recommendations to library leadership
Throughout the plan, maintain detailed notes on progress, challenges, and feedback. Assign responsibilities for each task and set deadlines to ensure accountability. This structured approach will help you build confidence and demonstrate your value as an electronic resources librarian.
By adhering to this plan, you will establish a strong foundation for managing electronic resources effectively and contributing to your library's mission of providing seamless access to digital information.
