RBMS Mentoring Program

The Mentoring Program, sponsored by the Membership and Professional Development Committee, is designed to facilitate communication between RBMS members and to support their professional development as special collections librarians, curators, and archivists. It is open to all members of RBMS, old or new, who need help in becoming more involved with RBMS and in navigating the rare books and manuscripts profession.

RBMS mentors can:

• Explain how RBMS works and introduce mentees to other RBMS members and professional colleagues at RBMS and ALA conferences.

• Suggest appropriate library and information studies classes, continuing education coursework, or RBMS conference sessions to help mentees achieve their career goals.

• Serve as a resource for policies, procedures and other information relating to RBMS and the profession.

RBMS mentees can:

• Ask mentors for information and advice on RBMS committees, activities, and preconference and annual/midwinter meetings.

• Request guidance on career goals, resume writing, and educational opportunities.

• Discuss current trends in rare books and manuscripts librarianship.

How it Works

The RBMS Mentoring Program tries to match members requesting mentors with more experienced librarians, curators or archivists who are active in RBMS. Matches will be made based on subject interests, geographic location, or other stated criteria. When a match is made, the Mentoring Program notifies the mentor and the mentee, providing contact information and suggested guidelines. Together, mentors and mentees determine their expectations and how to best structure their relationship. RBMS encourages mentors to remain in touch with their mentees on a monthly basis for at least one year, and if possible, to meet in person at RBMS preconferences and ALA annual or midwinter meetings.

How to Apply

To request a mentor or to become one, please complete the application form. To ensure appropriate pairings between mentor and mentee, please indicate at least one preference or subject area of interest.