Public Library Staff Education Program Mentorship Program

What are the Benefits of Participating in the Public Library Staff Education Program (PLSEP) Mentorship Program?

Mentorship is a valuable relationship that contributes to both personal and professional development. Mentorship programs offer valuable benefits for both mentors and mentees. Workers with mentors report high job satisfaction — 91% of those with mentors feel satisfied with their jobs compared to those without. Mentorship programs also provide personal career development for both mentors and mentees, as mentorship fosters personal growth, expands networks, and enhances professional skills for both parties. Organizations with mentorship programs also often experience better employee retention rates. While this program spans dozens of library systems, the goal is to improve retention in the library field. As more and more library professionals are reaching the age of retirement, it is essential that current library managers are engaging in succession planning for their industry. Through mentorship programs like this, managers from across California’s diverse library systems can connect with library staff that are seeking coaching in the variety of library specializations, services and departments that are found throughout these public library buildings and administrative teams.

Why Become a Mentee?

Mentorship is open to current PLSEP participants only.

Mentorship programs offer several benefits for mentees:

  • Guidance and Support: Mentees receive personalized guidance from experienced mentors. They can seek advice on career decisions, skill development, and personal growth.
  • Skill Development: Mentees learn from their mentor’s expertise, gaining practical skills and knowledge.
  • Networking Opportunities: Through their mentor, mentees gain access to a broader professional network, which can lead to job opportunities and connections.
  • Increased Confidence: Having a mentor who believes in their abilities boosts mentees’ self-confidence.
  • Career Development: Mentees learn about career paths, industry trends, and potential growth opportunities.
  • Emotional Support: Mentors provide encouragement during challenging times and help mentees navigate workplace dynamics.

Why Become a Mentor?

Mentorship programs offer several benefits for mentors:

  • Leadership Development: As mentors, current library managers can enhance their leadership skills by guiding and supporting mentees.
  • Personal Fulfillment: Helping others succeed brings a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
  • Networking: Mentors expand their professional network through mentee’s connections.
  • Skill Refinement: Teaching and advising mentees sharpen mentors’ own skills.
  • Fresh Perspectives: Mentors gain insights from mentees, fostering creativity and growth.

An Ideal Mentor will Demonstrate:

  • Experience and expertise in the library position they are coaching their mentee.
  • Empathy and patience to support their mentee and give them time to absorb new concepts, make mistakes and grow.
  • Approachability and be an active listener who is open and friendly, but also shows a
  • genuine interest in understanding their mentee’s concerns, goals and challenges.
  • Commitment to the time to grow the mentoring relationship and to always acting in an honest, ethical and trustworthy manner in the best interest of their mentee.

Timeline

Application Period

Applications will be accepted until Monday, February 17, 2025 @ 11:59 PM.

Mentorship Agreement Form

Mentors and mentees will complete the Mentorship Acknowledgement Form and return it to sclcadmin@socallibraries.org by March 1, 2025.

Program Duration

The PLSEP Mentorship program will run from March 1, 2025 through June 30, 2025.

Meeting Expectations

Successful mentorship is achieved by regular meetings and communication. Mentors and mentees are encouraged to meet at least once a month, although this will be established at the discretion of each pair.

Apply

Applications will be accepted until Monday, February 17, 2025 @ 11:59 pm.