Starting a new role as a film librarian involves mastering a unique set of skills and understanding specialized workflows. This 30-60-90 day plan provides a structured approach to help new film librarians acclimate efficiently, set clear goals, and track their progress through the critical first three months.
Our 30-60-90 day onboarding plan enables new film librarians to:
- Establish a foundational understanding of the film archive's cataloging system and metadata standards
- Gain hands-on experience with digital asset management software and preservation techniques
- Build relationships with the archival team, filmmakers, and other stakeholders
- Contribute to ongoing projects such as film digitization, restoration, and public access initiatives
Whether you are joining a large film archive or a specialized collection, this customizable plan will help you navigate your responsibilities and make meaningful contributions from day one.
Benefits of a 30-60-90 Day Plan for Film Librarians
Adopting this plan ensures that new film librarians:
- Develop a clear roadmap tailored to the complexities of film archiving and library science
- Accelerate their learning curve with targeted milestones in cataloging, preservation, and access
- Enhance collaboration by integrating smoothly with the archival team and external partners
- Build confidence in managing both physical and digital film collections effectively
Key Elements of the Film Librarian 30-60-90 Day Plan
This plan is structured into three progressive phases, each focusing on critical competencies and deliverables:
First 30 Days: Orientation and Foundation
New film librarians will familiarize themselves with the archive's collection scope, cataloging standards (such as FIAF or MARC), and digital asset management systems. They will complete training on preservation best practices and begin shadowing experienced staff to understand daily workflows.
Days 31-60: Skill Development and Integration
During this phase, librarians will take on cataloging assignments, assist with digitization projects, and participate in collection assessments. They will engage with stakeholders to understand user needs and contribute to improving access protocols.
Days 61-90: Independent Contribution and Project Ownership
By the final phase, film librarians are expected to manage assigned collections independently, lead small projects such as metadata enhancement or public programming support, and provide feedback to improve archival processes. Regular check-ins will assess progress and set goals for ongoing development.
This comprehensive 30-60-90 day plan empowers film librarians to transition confidently into their role, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of valuable film heritage.
