Academic library residency programs offer inaugural Resident Librarian Summit

Early-career library professionals serving residencies at participating institutions gathered at the University of Virginia for the inaugural Resident Librarian Summit.

The summit, themed Connect, Amplify, Spotlight, was designed to foster meaningful connections and new opportunities for collaboration and professional growth for resident librarians from Virginia Tech, North Carolina State University, Washington and Lee University, Duke University, American University, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

At University Libraries at Virginia Tech, resident positions are designed for recent graduates of a master’s degree program or entry-level library, data, or information professionals. New librarians participate in an intensive program where they work in data services, evidence synthesis, collections, metadata services, open education, or publishing services. The individualized program reflects the new librarian’s professional interests and long-term career goals.

Eric Glenn, University Libraries’ director of belonging, engagement, and organizational development, and Roberto Silva, head of Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC's Health Sciences and Technology Library, coordinate the resident librarian program at Virginia Tech and were excited about this initiative. Glenn said the summit allowed residents to gain insights into different residency programs, offering them a broad perspective.

“Our primary objective was to ensure that residents departed with a sense of enthusiasm and rejuvenation, ready to tackle the upcoming academic year with confidence,” said Glenn. “We aimed to recognize and highlight the residents’ significant contributions to the field, emphasizing their importance and impact. By fostering meaningful connections, we sought to expand cohort sizes and create new opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.”

During the summit, the residents engaged in activities that encouraged team-building and networking and a program that offered a chance to learn from established professionals.

“Overall, the retreat was a fulfilling experience that accomplished its mission of connecting, amplifying, and spotlighting residents and program coordinators,” said Glenn. “The participants left with renewed energy, expanded networks, and a strong sense of community. Mission accomplished.”