Weathering the storm: A case study in managing staffing challenges

This case study examines staffing issues within an academic research library’s instruction program and provides actionable solutions to improve instructional capacity. Leadership of the library’s research and instruction program were confronted with the retirement of three instruction librarians and a statewide hiring freeze. Multiple challenges presented themselves during this transitional period: the university moved to R1 status with increased expectations but no increase in funding; statewide budget issues impacted library staffing; and an absence of permanent library leadership to shepherd the change placed increased burdens on all employees. This case study outlines specific actions taken by leadership in the library instruction unit to review the instruction and liaison program and maintain key services amidst pressures on staffing. Unit leadership incorporated several strategies to address a period of staffing challenges. These include cross-training, reassignment of responsibilities, prioritization of time management, and support of the well-being of librarians.