Mentorship is a Public Librarianship Best Practice

Mentorship is a big part of successful library operations. In order for librarians to advance their goals, and develop their professional abilities, a special relationship is needed for individuals to gain a better understanding of where they sit within the field. The mentor/mentee relationship allows both people within the relationship to improve upon their weaknesses and shed light on their strengths.

Some might believe the idea of mentoring is for large organizations, higher education or libraries in much bigger communities. In my personal opinion, I squash this notion. There is much to be gained from fostering emotional and strategic relationships. Humans, and librarians of all types can benefit from staying connected to someone they trust and value.

The mentor/mentee relationship does not have to be explicit. Sheryl Sandberg, author of Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead, and Chief Operating Officer of Facebook agrees with this idea. In her book, she confirms the mentor/mentee relationship cannot be defined by a verbal or written agreement between two people. It is a relationship that unfolds through circumstance, and connects two people who want to see each other advance in life.

I have had several mentors in my life. Some of them were gifts because of my upbringing. Both my father and older brother played an important role in my childhood. Even today, I turn to them for advice and encouragement. While in college, I connected with two specific professors who guided me through my studies, and made certain I extended myself to the fullest. Most recently and notably, I reflect upon my relationship with Donald Comstock, board president of David A. Howe Public Library.

Donald and I began our work together back in 2005. It was my first year at Wellsville’s public library, and I think Donald’s twenty-seventh. During our eight year relationship, Donald and I accomplished a lot through the support of library staff, trustees, volunteers and community members. We spearheaded funding campaigns, undertook significant construction and expanded library outreach to the community. Some months felt like years, and some years felt like weeks. I believe this misconception of time indicated we were going through everything together.

Our efforts never went unrewarded. Granted, we experienced some really difficult moments in those years, and had to make some tough decisions, but for the most part, we celebrated a lot of amazing times. I think my most memorable moment with Donald was receiving an annual award at a NYLA Conference. When I was presented with the award, I looked out across the room of a couple hundred librarians, but the only people I could really see were my wife, Donald’s wife Jackie, and Donald. As I made my acceptance speech, I couldn’t help but hope Donald realized the acknowledgement was for both of us. We finished the evening with some cold beers and laughter.

Our member librarians and library boards could benefit greatly from such a necessary practice. I am certain many of you are already engaging in such fruitful relationships. You may not be aware of it, or you may not care to acknowledge it. But, most importantly you are practicing it. Even if you don’t have someone you feel you can connect with, I encourage you to look around our System. There are amazing people, who are doing amazing work and will provide you with the support and guidance you need.

Have a great weekend STLS! As always, thank you for your many efforts, and please call or write with questions.
Kindest Regards,

Brian M. Hildreth, Executive Director
Southern Tier Library System

Follow me on Twitter: @comlibpartner