Person-Centered Appraisals for Encouraging Growth and Development

Abstract

The libraries of today are not just buildings that house books. Rather they are institutions where library staff champion efforts and initiatives to provide access to resources, support communities, promote literacy, and protect the public’s right to freedom of information. As the director of the Los Angeles County Library System Skye Patrick aptly noted, “Libraries are not about books, they’re about people.” Library staff build and sustain sound, interpersonal relationships with the public and the communities they serve. Library employees should therefore possess the appropriate social and interpersonal skills to serve their respective communities. Work practices should help library employees build and hone their interpersonal skills. A performance appraisal, although evaluative in nature, represents a model of communication that can provide opportunities to inspire employees and build upon their existing skills.