Document Type
Article
Original Publication Date
2017
Journal/Book/Conference Title
Reference Services Review
Volume
45
Issue
4
Last Page
574
DOI
10.1108/RSR-04-2017-0010
Date of Submission
November 2017
Abstract
Purpose - This paper reports on librarians’ experience creating and sustaining a workshop and webinar series for graduate students over the course of four years.
Design/methodology/approach - Difficulties hosting and promoting stand-alone graduate workshops and a collaborative method for planning workshop days and webinars are described in this case study. Attendance data were collected and recorded for each event and additional quantitative data were collected via registration forms and post-event surveys.
Findings - Working collaboratively as a department eased planning and promotional responsibilities, allowing for a sustainable workshops series. Focusing on a limited number of events per semester and developing a brand identity for the series streamlined promotion and increased attendance, relative to discipline-based, stand-alone workshops.
Originality/value - While many libraries host workshops, the originality of our program lies in the collaborative planning and promotion process that efficiently uses librarian time and expertise to continuously offer well-attended graduate workshops and webinars. This case study could be used as an example for institutions considering starting a workshop series or those experiencing difficulties with stand-alone workshops.
Is Part Of
VCU Libraries Faculty and Staff Publications
Comments
This is an Author Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Emerald in Reference Services Review, available online: http://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/full/10.1108/RSR-04-2017-0010