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Library Orientations ToolKit: General Process

This guide is intended to provide useful information for new and returning library volunteers who assist during university events for new students, staff, or faculty.

GENERAL TIMELINE FOR ORIENTATION ACTIVITIES

NOTE: Starting with 2019, General Resource Fair activities for both undergraduate and graduate students are held each fall only.  Online modules replaced these activities for Spring but are also available each fall along with the in-person activities.

How to Handle Requests for Library Engagement

Process Chart

Orientation and Event Planning Best Practices

  • Communicate: Let appropriate stakeholders know of any events at the earliest point in your planning.  The libraries have a great many people who can help you make the most of the events. You don't have to do it on your own.  There are also many things we can learn from your experience to help us make it better in the future. 

While there are many channels of communication (like slack). These are not always ideal for tracking needs.  Be sure that you communicate with necessary channels.

  • Be Proactive:
    • Prepare early: General orientations have a consistent schedule and little variations.  The Fall & Spring dates, times, and other information is posted in the Orientations folder on the UL Shared Drive.  Make a  note (or a task) to check it regularly.
    • Join the Orientation Team (email ethanp@andrew.cmu.edu).  Can't commit or unsure?  Look out for calls on UniLib or from coordinators and volunteer to help.
    • Stay informed:
      • Contact the appropriate coordinators (or stakeholders).  If the event doesn't fall in the undergraduate, or graduate and new faculty categories, locate the appropriate liaison or work with external relations).
      • Check this guide for the latest information and report discrepancies.
  • Assess:  Track and Give feedback: Make sure data on orientations or outreach events are recorded in LibInsight.  Feedback can be entered in the additional comments field.