Embedded librarianship in branch settings: customizing liaison services

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present analysis of the role of the branch librarian as a valuable paradigm for embedded librarianship. Branch librarians develop strong connections to specialized client groups and build programs and services in response to their unique environments. Design/methodology/approach – A review of research in embedded librarianship was conducted with particular emphasis on branch librarians. This article provides critique of research on embedded librarianship from the perspectives of branch management and an overview of strategies typically employed. Findings – In important ways, branch librarians present an ideal model for embedded librarianship. They work toward close communication with the faculty and students of their academic unit, and are on location, identifying the specific needs and customizing services for patron groups in their academic settings. Originality/value – The authors are Coordinators of Branch Library Services at Mississippi State University for the College of Architecture, Art, and Design and the College of Veterinary Medicine. The authors’ experiences as branch managers and immersion within their academic units provide a unique and more comprehensive analysis of embedded librarianship, one that has been overlooked.

A Faculty-Librarian Collaboration in the Undergraduate and Graduate Degree Project and Thesis Preparation Courses

“…This dual reporting structure strengthens the librarian's position in becoming embedded in the curriculum. 4 Being embedded in the School of Architecture gives the librarian the opportunity to design instruction for the specific environment he or she serves. 5 The branch librarian teaches a required information literacy course and offers in-class bibliographic instruction.…”

“…CATHRYN COPPER Woodbury University embedded. 10 Last, librarians need to clearly communicate an interest in teaching at the advanced research level.…”

“…The greater understanding of the academic program, faculty interests and course offerings, the better the potential for being effectively embedded." 24 The direct experience the librarian had with students at the advanced research level led to more informed collection development decisions. Students commented on the valuable additions to the collection, resulting in a more positive perception of the library.…”

Effects of Brief Integrated Information Literacy Education Sessions on Undergraduate Engineering Students' Interdisciplinary Research

“…Most librarians taking part in their study listed professional, pedagogical, technical, and personal skills but none of the respondents mentioned "subject-related knowledge and understanding" as a key aspect of their competencies. Hall and Derek (2014) argue that "branch librarians" communicate closely with faculty and students, learn their customers' information needs and can use that knowledge to customize library services. In neither of the aforementioned studies, however, are librarians seen as co-teachers with faculty education.…”