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The Expert Behind the Desk: Collaborative Cross-Training in Unlocking Potential in Frontline Academic Library Staff.

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Title: The Expert Behind the Desk: Collaborative Cross-Training in Unlocking Potential in Frontline Academic Library Staff.
Authors: Freeman, John Mack1 (AUTHOR) john.freeman@library.gatech.edu, Ellis, Justin2 (AUTHOR)
Source: Journal of Library Administration. Aug-Oct2025, Vol. 65 Issue 6/7, p679-699. 21p.
Subject Terms: *Employee training, *Collaborative learning, *Talent development, *Career development, *Academic libraries, Customer services
Abstract: Academic libraries often face staffing challenges that hinder their ability to meet growing demands. The Georgia Tech Library addressed this issue by launching a partnership program (2018–present) to cross-train frontline staff in specialized library areas. The initiative emphasized professional development and tailored service support, encouraging collaborative learning and adaptability. By clearly defining expectations, cultivating a growth-oriented environment, and personalizing training for each staff member, the program bridged service gaps and unlocked new skills in existing employees. This case study highlights how cross-training can transform libraries into dynamic, supportive workplaces with expanded expertise and customized solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Copyright of Journal of Library Administration is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
Database: Education Research Complete
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PubType: Academic Journal
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  Data: The Expert Behind the Desk: Collaborative Cross-Training in Unlocking Potential in Frontline Academic Library Staff.
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  Data: <searchLink fieldCode="AR" term="%22Freeman%2C+John+Mack%22">Freeman, John Mack</searchLink><relatesTo>1</relatesTo> (AUTHOR)<i> john.freeman@library.gatech.edu</i><br /><searchLink fieldCode="AR" term="%22Ellis%2C+Justin%22">Ellis, Justin</searchLink><relatesTo>2</relatesTo> (AUTHOR)
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  Data: <searchLink fieldCode="JN" term="%22Journal+of+Library+Administration%22">Journal of Library Administration</searchLink>. Aug-Oct2025, Vol. 65 Issue 6/7, p679-699. 21p.
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  Data: *<searchLink fieldCode="DE" term="%22Employee+training%22">Employee training</searchLink><br />*<searchLink fieldCode="DE" term="%22Collaborative+learning%22">Collaborative learning</searchLink><br />*<searchLink fieldCode="DE" term="%22Talent+development%22">Talent development</searchLink><br />*<searchLink fieldCode="DE" term="%22Career+development%22">Career development</searchLink><br />*<searchLink fieldCode="DE" term="%22Academic+libraries%22">Academic libraries</searchLink><br /><searchLink fieldCode="DE" term="%22Customer+services%22">Customer services</searchLink>
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  Label: Abstract
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  Data: Academic libraries often face staffing challenges that hinder their ability to meet growing demands. The Georgia Tech Library addressed this issue by launching a partnership program (2018–present) to cross-train frontline staff in specialized library areas. The initiative emphasized professional development and tailored service support, encouraging collaborative learning and adaptability. By clearly defining expectations, cultivating a growth-oriented environment, and personalizing training for each staff member, the program bridged service gaps and unlocked new skills in existing employees. This case study highlights how cross-training can transform libraries into dynamic, supportive workplaces with expanded expertise and customized solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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  Data: <i>Copyright of Journal of Library Administration is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract.</i> (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)
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        Value: 10.1080/01930826.2025.2518007
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        Text: English
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      – SubjectFull: Employee training
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      – SubjectFull: Collaborative learning
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      – SubjectFull: Talent development
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      – SubjectFull: Career development
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      – SubjectFull: Academic libraries
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      – SubjectFull: Customer services
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              Text: Aug-Oct2025
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