The competencies listed below will help develop skills that many library workers need in their roles. We hope you find these PA Library Staff Academy tutorials useful in onboarding new staff, board members, and volunteers. Please visit the PA Library Staff Academy for more professional development opportunities.
The PA Library Staff Academy Customer Service category has tutorials on how to provide effective customer service, serving with empathy, developing cultural competence, and more.
The following are recommended Customer Service webinars:
The Homeless Library Academy category focuses on whole person librarianship and skill building de-escalation techniques. See more information on Ryan Dowd's trainings here or start with the following recommended trainings:
Digital Skills offers an array of tutorials focused developing digital skills including computer basics, internet and information safety, web accessibility, and Microsoft suite.
It is important that all staff have a basic understanding of library ethics. The following tutorials can help build those skills:
Follow along with Becky Spratford, Readers' Advisory expert, on how to diversity your collection and grow your RA skills in the following 4-part learning pathway.
Libraries are facing an unprecedented number of collection challenges and First Amendment issues. The following tutorials can help explain what to do in those situations:
Library Management and Administration offers tutorials that cover diverse topics including staff management, data and reporting, state regulations and laws, and more. The following tutorials are recommended for viewing:
Grant funding opportunities are available annually through the Office of Commonwealth Libraries. The following tutorials are recommended to prepare for that process:
New Trustees may find the following tutorials valuable as they embark on their new role.
Seasoned trustees may find the following subject specific deep dives helpful in their board development:
Trustees may find it helpful to familiarize themselves with PA state laws and regulations. The following tutorials may be of use: