Many models of mentoring programs exist, however, their efficacy in attaining the goals and objectives of creating a mentoring relationship depends on certain provisions and actions taken to ensure that all parties involved in the relationship are aware of and agree upon certain criteria. As a result, the structure of this mentoring program should include the following components.
Whether there exists a single moderator or a moderating body, there must exist a method for the members of the program to redress grievances about their particular pairings, turn to for counsel, to maintain the methods of communications, and to evaluate the program, and make necessary changes.
This report suggests that a governing body, rather than a single individual head this program. Because the mentoring program will include more than one division in ALA, with focuses in public librarianship and in secondary education librarianship, there needs be representatives of both settings. Public librarianship and secondary education librarianship require different, although certainly related, skill sets and face different challenges. In order to adequately pair participants most effectively, at least one expert in each field should be on the management team. The team should communicate regularly in order to maintain a high quality program.
Included in the governing body should be someone who knows technology. Due to advances in technology there are several options for mentors and mentees to communicate with each other. A representative in the field who keeps up with technology and knows the ins and outs of preferred modes of communication to aid participants in their use of the technology. If a blog is used, someone must be present to moderate and troubleshoot the blog. This goes for many suggested means of communication.
An application process that takes into account personality, interests, experience, and career goals from both the mentor and the mentees should be administered.
Examples of applications used in successful mentoring programs can be found in Appendix ___.
Application requirements may including providing a resume and letters of recommendation, mentees should be in school, mentors should have at least x amount of experience.
To ensure that both parties are aware of and agree upon the expectations and minimum requirements, a contract will be signed by each party of the mentoring relationship. The contract should consist of the following:
- Minimum requirements of the program
- Grievance procedure
- Goals and objectives of both parties
- The time frame for the relationship
- Frequency of communication
- A definition of the relationship—for example not friends, no dating, respect
The program should evaluate itself frequently to ensure that it is providing the best service possible. Evaluation forms should be submitted in the middle of and at the expiration of a partnership. Great efforts should be taken to adjust the program so that it will benefit the most people.
Evaluations should not only include an evaluation of the program as a whole, but also of the mentor and the general experience.