Mentoring Program Q & A
| General | For the Mentee | For the Mentor |
General
What are the goals of the Mentoring Program?
To support the professional development of all University of Maryland library staff, including faculty, and exempt and non-exempt staff.
To assist employees new to The University of Maryland in becoming familiar with and involved in the library system.
To open the channels of communication between those at different levels and in different departments of the library system.
Who may request a Mentor?
Faculty Librarians: The program is designed for new and junior librarians, but it is open to all.
Exempt and Non-Exempt Staff: The program is targeted at staff in entry level positions and/or new to the University of Maryland system, but it is open to all.
For the Mentee
Why take part in a Mentoring Program?
Mentees will:
Receive support at a time when they are new to the University library, the library profession, or learning a new skill.
Gain insights into the history and environment of the University of Maryland and College Park.
Build relationships with people in other units of the library system.
Shorten the time making the transition in a new situation and/or new skill.
Receive support in navigating a complex organization.
Receive assistance in professional development.
What should I look for in a potential Mentor?
Who is succesful in my discipline?
Whom do I admire and respect?
Who are the most influential people I know?
Who thinks I have potential?
Who has encouraged me?
Who has helped me in the past and might help me again?
Who is a good listener and communicator?
What is the process for getting a Mentor?
Simply fill out the application, or contact the Mentoring Advisory Committee.
You will be matched with a Mentor based on:
information gathered from your application,
a phone conversation with the Personnel Programs, Coordinator, and
information from the Mentor's application.
For the Mentor
Why take part in a Mentoring Program?
Mentors can:
Offer perspectives from outside the mentee's department.
Advise generally on professional development, and specifically on navigation with the University of Maryland Libraries system.
Provide guidelines on how to get involved in professional organizations and activities.
