Training coordinator outlines onboarding overhaul and staff development plans

Hannah Nelson, the library and cultural arts training and development coordinator, briefed trustees on training initiatives implemented since she began the role in April 2023.

Nelson described a staff needs assessment and an overhaul of onboarding to provide a stronger foundation for new employees, including training on core library services and customer service. She emphasized expanding professional development access for hourly staff (who make up 76% of staff) and noted staff-conference participation and staff-led "Connect and Learn" sessions to spread learnings.

She highlighted Staff Development Day 2023, which focused on cultivating connectedness after the pandemic, and said the department will run another Staff Development Day in fall 2024 and pursue system-wide safety training. Nelson said investing in staff development improves service and creates promotional pathways within the library.