Management of Training and Staff Development

What makes training so important? What is the value of developing a training policy? What might a training policy include? This guide presents an overview of how to manage the training and development of all staff who work in library and information services. It covers any training, development or education to which organizations might allocate resources. A systematic approach to identifying training needs, meeting them and evaluating training is suggested and practical guidance given on how to undertake each part of the training cycle. Should training be on or off the job? Internal or external? Use internal or external trainers? Thought is also given to such considerations as how to choose an external course or facilitator. Various training methods are assessed, and a closer examination made of probably the two most popular types: short courses and coaching. Throughout the emphasis is on providing the best conditions for learning, and hence for change, to take place. Responsibility for the organization and administration of training is also addressed. The practical approach taken in the guide is backed up by examples of working documents.
These are included to give an insight into how some library and information services have tackled aspects of the management of training and staff development.