Embedding

Methodology & Framework

Through a literature review and a survey of our personal experiences, we present some best practices that embedded librarians can use to support professional graduate programs. Examples build on the literature for undergraduate programs, information literacy, and on-line embedding.

Outcomes for Implementing Formal & Informal

 Collaboration opportunities for instruction and research
 Increased role in program administration
 Perception by administration and faculty of library’s worth to the organization
 Improved collection development
 Closer relationships with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and practitioners
 Stakeholder opinions are easier to access leading to improved user-centred services
 Increased referrals
 Funding support for positions and services through partnerships

Conclusions

 Formal and informal methods reinforce one another
 Librarians are part of the professional program they support
 Branch model provides more opportunities for embedding through informal 
  methods

Successful embedded librarians are user-focused, integrated, and service oriented.  These individuals are outgoing and confident. They use methods to build on relationships established by their predecessors and library colleagues.