Example SOPs: Research Librarian

Research Librarian SOPs

Creating Standard Operating Procedures for your Research Librarian work can be difficult and take time. That’s why we’ve created these example Research Librarian SOPs so you can jumpstart your SOP creation process. We want to help you set up your Library systems and processes by taking these sample SOPs and building out your own SOPs template library. By having all your Library procedures in one place, your team will have the information they need at all times. Let’s look at some Research Librarian SOP examples.

Research Librarian SOP Examples

1. Acquisition of Library Materials SOP: The purpose of this SOP is to outline the process for acquiring new library materials, including books, journals, databases, and other resources. The scope of this SOP includes identifying the need for new materials, conducting research to find suitable resources, evaluating vendors, placing orders, and tracking the delivery of materials. The Research Librarian is responsible for overseeing this SOP, with reference to the Collection Development Policy SOP for guidance on selection criteria and the Budget Management SOP for financial considerations.

2. Cataloging and Classification SOP: This SOP details the procedures for cataloging and classifying library materials to ensure efficient organization and retrieval. The purpose of this SOP is to maintain accurate and consistent records of library holdings, enabling users to locate resources easily. The scope of this SOP includes assigning appropriate subject headings, classifying materials according to established systems (e.g., Dewey Decimal or Library of Congress), and inputting metadata into the library catalog. The Cataloging Librarian is responsible for implementing this SOP, with reference to the Cataloging Standards SOP for guidelines on cataloging rules and the Authority Control SOP for maintaining authority files.

3. Reference Services SOP: The purpose of this SOP is to provide guidelines for delivering effective reference services to library users. The scope of this SOP encompasses assisting users in locating information, answering research inquiries, providing instruction on library resources and research techniques, and offering guidance on citation styles and plagiarism. The Reference Librarian is responsible for implementing this SOP, with reference to the Reference Interview SOP for conducting effective reference interviews and the Information Literacy Instruction SOP for designing instructional sessions.

4. Interlibrary Loan SOP: This SOP outlines the procedures for borrowing and lending materials between libraries to fulfill user requests for resources not available in the local library. The purpose of this SOP is to expand access to information and enhance the library’s collection. The scope of this SOP includes requesting materials from other libraries, processing incoming and outgoing loans, tracking loaned items, and ensuring timely returns. The Interlibrary Loan Librarian is responsible for overseeing this SOP, with reference to the Interlibrary Loan Policy SOP for guidelines on eligibility and fees.

5. Preservation and Conservation SOP: The purpose of this SOP is to establish protocols for preserving and conserving library materials to ensure their longevity and usability. The scope of this SOP includes implementing proper handling and storage techniques, conducting regular inspections for damage or deterioration, performing basic repairs, and coordinating professional conservation treatments when necessary. The Preservation Librarian is responsible for implementing this SOP, with reference to the Disaster Preparedness SOP for emergency response procedures and the Digital Preservation SOP for managing digital resources.

6. Information Literacy Instruction SOP: This SOP outlines the process for designing and delivering information literacy instruction sessions to library users. The purpose of this SOP is to enhance users’ research skills and promote effective information-seeking behaviors. The scope of this SOP includes assessing users’ information needs, developing instructional materials and lesson plans, delivering instruction in various formats (e.g., workshops, online tutorials), and evaluating the effectiveness of instruction. The Instruction Librarian is responsible for implementing this SOP, with reference to the Curriculum Integration SOP for collaborating with faculty and the Assessment of Learning Outcomes SOP for evaluating instructional outcomes.

7. Collection Development Policy SOP: This SOP establishes guidelines for the selection, evaluation, and deselection of library materials to ensure the collection meets the needs of library users. The purpose of this SOP is to maintain a relevant and balanced collection. The scope of this SOP includes defining selection criteria, evaluating resources for inclusion, monitoring usage statistics, and periodically reviewing the collection for deselection. The Collection Development Librarian is responsible for overseeing this SOP, with reference to the Budget Management SOP for financial considerations and the Acquisition of Library Materials SOP for the acquisition process.

8. Information Technology Management SOP: This SOP outlines the procedures for managing the library’s information technology infrastructure and services. The purpose of this SOP is to ensure the availability, security, and functionality of library systems and digital resources. The scope of this SOP includes managing hardware and software, troubleshooting technical issues, implementing data backup and recovery plans, and coordinating with IT support staff. The IT Librarian or Systems Librarian is responsible for implementing this SOP, with reference to the IT Security SOP for maintaining data security and the Digital Preservation SOP for managing digital resources

Research Librarian SOP Templates

Looking for SOP templates for your Research Librarian work? We’ve got you covered. You can build out your company SOPs using the sample SOP information above (added to our template) or our team can put together a starter SOPs template based on your Research Librarian work. Get in touch if you’ve got questions about the quickest way to build out your Library SOPs library.