Post-pandemic perspectives on academic librarian recruitment practices: Insights from job seekers

Abstract

The recruitment and retention of skilled librarians is essential to the success of academic libraries. However, recruitment practices have failed to adjust to the needs of librarians and the evolving job market. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this challenge, further emphasizing the need to reform recruitment efforts. This study reports on the results of a survey conducted in 2023 and 2024 to explore the experiences of 166 job seekers applying for academic librarian jobs in the United States between 2020 and 2023. The findings highlight the importance of candidate-centered practices in the recruitment process, as well as the creation of positions and work environments that are supportive of employee's personal wellness and values.