Staffing Student Libraries: Optimal Ratios For University Success

The number of staff a university library should have per student is a critical question for institutions. The Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) has developed standards to guide academic libraries in this area, emphasising the need for sufficient number and quality of personnel to ensure excellence. This includes meeting the diverse teaching and research needs of both faculty and students.

However, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The specific ratio will depend on various factors, such as the size of the student body, the number of courses offered, and the types of services provided by the library. For example, undergraduate library services often require additional staff dedicated to introducing students to research methods and resources.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average librarian and staff-to-student ratio in 2012 was 7.46 for the state and 8.36 nationally. However, these numbers can vary significantly between institutions, with some universities having much higher or lower ratios.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that the library has enough staff to effectively serve the needs of its users and support the institution's educational mission.

Librarians and staff per 1000 FTE students

The number of librarians and staff per 1000 FTE students is a key metric for assessing the performance of university libraries. This metric provides insight into the level of service and support that a library can offer to its student population.

In 2012, the staffing ratio of librarians and library staff to students varied significantly across different institutions and states. San Antonio College (SAC), for instance, had a ratio of 1.71 librarians and staff per 1000 FTE students, which was well below the state average of 7.46 and the national average of 8.36.

A low staffing ratio can have negative consequences for student success and library operations. For example, at SAC, a low staffing ratio resulted in reduced man-hours, impaired student services, and difficulties in achieving the college's "Information Literacy" goals.

To address such issues, it is essential to ensure that libraries have sufficient personnel to meet the diverse teaching and research needs of faculty and students. This includes having staff with the necessary education, experience, and commitment to ongoing professional development.

Additionally, libraries should strive to provide a range of personnel, including librarians, other professionals, paraprofessionals, clerical staff, and technical personnel. This diversity of roles ensures that the library can offer a comprehensive array of services and support to its users.

By maintaining an adequate number and variety of staff, libraries can effectively contribute to student recruitment, retention, and academic success, thereby justifying their value within the institution.

Student success

Ensuring student success is a key priority for university libraries. To achieve this, libraries must provide sufficient resources, including an adequate number of staff with the right skills and experience.

The number of staff required in a university library depends on several factors, such as the size of the student body and the specific needs of the students. For example, undergraduate students often require more support and guidance than graduate students, as they are still developing their research skills. Therefore, it is essential to have dedicated library staff who understand the unique needs of undergraduates.

According to the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL), libraries play a crucial role in advancing and sustaining their partnership in educating students and contributing to their institutions' missions. ACRL's Standards for Libraries in Higher Education emphasise the importance of libraries in promoting student success. One of the key principles outlined in these standards is "Educational Role," which states that libraries should "partner in the educational mission of the institution to develop and support information-literate learners who can discover, access, and use information effectively for academic success, research, and lifelong learning."

To achieve this, library personnel should actively collaborate with faculty members to incorporate library resources and services into the curriculum and co-curricular activities effectively. Additionally, library staff should provide timely and appropriate instruction using various learning platforms and pedagogies. This includes modelling best practices for classroom teaching and online tutorial design.

Another critical aspect of ensuring student success is providing a sufficient number of personnel with the necessary skills and experience. ACRL's standards highlight the need for libraries to have "sufficient number and quality of personnel to ensure excellence and to function successfully in an environment of continuous change." This includes having staff with diverse backgrounds, excellent communication skills, and a strong commitment to ongoing professional development.

Furthermore, it is essential to consider the ratio of librarians and library staff to students. According to the 2012 biennial statistical survey of academic libraries, San Antonio College had a ratio of 1.71 librarians and staff per 1000 FTE students, which was well below the state and national averages. As a result, the loss of experienced faculty due to retirement impaired student services and library operations. Therefore, maintaining an adequate staff-to-student ratio is crucial for supporting student success effectively.

Library instruction

Significance of Library Instruction

The primary goal of library instruction is to foster information literacy among students. In today's information-rich environment, it is essential for students to develop the skills to navigate and critically evaluate the vast array of resources available to them. Library instruction empowers students to identify, locate, and effectively utilise relevant information from a diverse range of sources, including books, journals, primary sources, and digital collections. It equips them with the ability to think critically, conduct research independently, and make informed decisions based on the information they encounter.

Approaches to Library Instruction

Integration with Coursework

Effective library instruction is closely integrated with the curriculum. Library personnel collaborate with faculty members to embed information literacy learning outcomes into course curricula, assignments, and research projects. This ensures that students can immediately apply the skills they learn in the library within their academic work. For example, librarians may work with faculty to design assignments that require the use of specific library resources or the application of information evaluation techniques. This integration reinforces the practical value of library instruction and highlights its relevance to students' academic success.

Instructional Methods and Pedagogical Practices

Library personnel should employ a range of instructional methods and pedagogical practices to engage students effectively. This includes modelling best practices in classroom teaching, utilising active learning techniques, and incorporating multiple learning platforms and pedagogies. Hands-on, interactive sessions that encourage student participation can enhance their engagement and deepen their understanding of information literacy concepts. Librarians should also stay abreast of technological advancements and leverage appropriate tools to support teaching and learning, such as online tutorials, virtual learning environments, and instructional technologies.

Continuous Improvement and Assessment

Library staff experience

University libraries should have a sufficient number of staff with the right skills and experience to meet the needs of their students. This includes both professional librarians and support staff.

The specific number of staff required will depend on the size and nature of the student body, as well as the services offered by the library. For example, a library serving a large student population with diverse research needs will require more staff than a smaller, more specialised library.

In the US, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) conducts surveys and collects data on library staffing. As of 2012, the NCES found that the national average for the staffing ratio of librarians and library staff to students was 8.36 per 1000 FTE students. However, this number can vary significantly between institutions, with some universities having much lower ratios.

Library staff should have a range of skills and expertise to meet the diverse needs of their students. They should be able to provide reference services, instruction in information literacy, and support for students conducting research. Staff should also be able to assist with the use of technology and provide a safe and secure environment for study and research.

In addition to professional librarians, support staff play an important role in the functioning of a university library. This can include paraprofessionals, clerical staff, and technical personnel. The ratio of professional to support staff will depend on the specific needs and budget of the library.

Overall, it is important for university libraries to have adequate staffing to ensure that students receive the support and resources they need to succeed in their academic pursuits. This may involve regular assessment and evaluation of staff skills and services to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the library is meeting the needs of its users.

Library staff roles

The number of staff a university library should have per student is dependent on several factors, including the size and type of the library, its specific needs, goals, and mission. According to the 2012 biennial statistical survey of academic libraries, the national average for the staffing ratio of librarians and library staff to students was 8.36 per 1000 FTE students.

Now, let's delve into the various roles of library staff in a university setting:

University libraries require a diverse range of staff roles to ensure effective operations and meet the varying needs of their patrons, especially undergraduate students who might need more guidance and resources. Here are some common roles and their responsibilities:

Librarians:

Librarians are the heart of the library, and they typically hold a Master of Library Science degree (MLS). They are responsible for helping users find data and information for their personal or professional use. This involves strong research skills and a technical background to navigate various technologies. Librarians also develop and lead educational programs, manage budgets, and delegate tasks to other staff members. They may specialize in specific fields like law, medicine, or psychology, or focus on reference or technical services.

Library Technicians/Assistants:

These staff members are trained to perform the day-to-day functions of the library and assist librarians and patrons. They might be called Library Technical Assistants, Library Services Assistants, or Library Information Specialists. They often have paraprofessional qualifications and contribute specialized expertise in specific fields.

Library Volunteers:

Volunteers are an invaluable part of the library team, performing non-professional tasks under the supervision of librarians or technicians. They might be students or community members interested in gaining experience or contributing to the library.

Teacher-Librarians:

In university settings, teacher-librarians are often trained educators who have received additional training in library science. They promote literacy, teach information skills, and support learners in their academic pursuits. They play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the educational and library contexts.

Support Staff:

This category includes a range of positions such as library aides, clerks, and assistants. They provide essential support to the library's operations, including circulation, shelving, and administrative tasks. While they may not have the same level of professional training as librarians, they are vital to the smooth functioning of the library.

Management:

Every library also needs effective management, including positions like Library Director or Managing Librarian. These individuals oversee the library's operations, manage staff, and ensure that the library's goals and mission are achieved.

The specific roles and responsibilities can vary depending on the size and nature of the university library. However, each staff member plays a crucial role in creating a welcoming and informative environment that supports the educational needs of the student body and the broader community.

Frequently asked questions