UMass Amherst Libraries Mentoring Program

The Mentoring Committee will pair an experienced staff member with a colleague who is seeking the benefits of a mentoring relationship.

This includes but is not limited to assistance for new librarians in understanding the library and university organizational structures, assistance in preparing for promotion, advice on professional development opportunities, and a working relationship on a specific aspect of librarianship or library service.

Any UMass Amherst librarian or staff member who is seeking professional advancement in libraries can request a mentor (including those considering or pursuing a degree in Library/Information Science.)

Subject/function-based mentoring activities could include talking about recent issues that have come up in that subject or area, exploring resources, or working together to create or improve a LibGuide so that it is more useful to beginners/non-experts. Subject- or function-based librarians can be a mentor in their area of expertise. If more than one person is looking for a mentor in the same subject, the mentor could have separate relationships, or switch over to a “group mentoring” situation. Subject/function based mentoring is a way to cross-train amongst librarians while also having the Mentoring Program Committee act as a support system.

A request for a mentor may be submitted at any time during the year.

Fill out the appropriate application (see links to the left) and the Mentoring Committee will contact you.

Mid-way through your mentoring period, you will receive a “check in” form to find out if you would like additional support from the Mentoring Committee.