Beyond the Stacks: A Sneak Peek into Library Staff Engagement with Job Shadowing (Case Study)

Abstract

This case study examines the implementation and impact of a job shadowing scheme at University of Nottingham Libraries. Job shadowing, as a low-cost staff development initiative, was introduced to address issues of staff engagement and retention in academic libraries. The paper outlines the scheme’s development, from its inception to full-scale implementation, highlighting its role in fostering cross-departmental understanding and breaking down silos. Key aspects include the commitment to inclusivity, the logistics of running the scheme, and the overwhelmingly positive feedback from both shadowees and hosts.

The study shows how job shadowing contributes to staff engagement by providing opportunities for professional growth, networking, and a broader understanding of library operations. It also demonstrates the scheme’s potential for improving staff retention by offering insights into different roles and career paths. The paper concludes with key recommendations for other academic libraries seeking to implement similar initiatives and notes that, while developed in a university context, the model has the potential to be adapted by other organisations.