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Interview Questions You Need To Ask When Library Staffing LA Public Institutions

By Kathleen Fox


Americans are not reading as much as they used to. The percentage has come down significantly over the last four years. Those who do read often use electronic devices instead of buying or borrowing books. Half of Americans can't even read at the eighth grade level. If libraries are going to remain relevant, the staff must have forward thinking ideas and be open to new ways of doing things. Interview questions asked when library staffing LA institutions should reflect this.

You need to know whether applicants believe libraries have the capacity to impact communities. You want to hire staff that appreciates the role of libraries in communities to make them stronger and address the needs of its citizens. Libraries have the power to produce change by sponsoring job fairs and computer, reading and writing literacy programs.

Customer service is an important part of any staffing role. Libraries are open to the public, and not all patrons are easy to get along with. Staff must be adaptable and have the right temperament for the job. Going the extra mile is part of the job. Librarians are regularly called on to help patrons with research projects and explain the way works are categorized.

It's easy to give a general answer to the question of customer service, so the person doing the interviewing might ask the applicant to give a concrete example of how he or she handled a difficult client. You are looking for someone who knows how to remain composed in a difficult situation and has problem solving skills.

In order to assess the candidate's qualifications, you might ask a question regarding assisting college students with research projects. You will be looking for specific knowledge about relevant works available in this facility and how willing the applicant is to teach college students how to request literature from libraries within the system. You want an applicant who understands the difference between assistance and doing the work for the student.

You might ask a candidate how the facility could be improved to create an atmosphere more conducive to learning without regard to gender, age, or status of the patrons. A good answer should include setting up stations with good lighting, comfortable chairs, and attractive accessories. These stations should be free of clutter and immaculately maintained. Hours of operation need to reflect the needs of patrons who work for a living.

An important question to ask in today's media savvy culture is the place of social media in a public institution. You are looking for someone who has experience with different social media platforms and marketing. You also need an individual who understands the importance of targeting a specific audience.

Libraries can't survive by clinging to their tradition as a repository for books that only card carrying patrons can check out. They must be interactive and forward thinking. Libraries need staff willing to recognize the distinction and build on it.




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