Mentoring interactively (Mling): new tools for librarian recruitment and retention

摘要

Purpose - This paper aims to explore the viability of social networking software as a new tool forrnlibrarian recruitment and retention.rnDesign/methodology/approach - Emerging technologies such as social networking softwarernenable new and unique opportunities for the recruitment and retention of librarians. Social networkingrnsoftware can bridge the generational divide that exists between current library and informationrnscience graduates and library professionals. Boomer librarians, Bridge generation librarians andrnNext-Gen librarians all have things in common that may not be readily apparent when meeting face tornface. However, in a virtual setting, a more egalitarian environment can be achieved. This paper aims tornpresent how corporate, academic and government librarians - Bridge and Next-gens - created thernfirst (as far as is known) virtual e-mentoring program using social networking software (IM, wikis,rnblogs, and virtual worlds). This virtual mentoring program was offered through the University ofrnSouth Carolina College of Mass Communications and Information Studies Alumni Associationrn(USC-CMCIS). This program was a partnership with the University of South Carolina's School ofrnLibrary and Information Science (USC-SLIS), the University of South Carolina College of MassrnCommunication (USC-CMS), artd the University of South Carolina's Library and Information SciencernStudent Association (USC-LISSA).rnFindings - It was found that librarians and library and information science students benefit fromrnincreased opportunities and formats in which to network.rnOriginality/value - Mentoring programs, including e-mentoring programs, which allow forrnnetworking, including online social networking, should be a key component in the recruitment andrnretention of librarians and in strengthening SLIS programs.