Each library keeps separate accounting and acquisitions files, but the patron, bibliographic, authority and reserves databases are shared. The Interlibrary Loan and Booking modules have been purchased, but are not fully implemented at this time. Staff had to adjust to having their background processes becoming public information and Public Services staff needed to learn to use the additional information provided by the integrated system to better assist patrons. UM-KC advocates the core competencies program as a means to provide a common knowledge base for all library staff, to provide a consistent library system training outline for new library staff, and to provide a benchmark for supervisors to evaluate staff.
Homework is tailored to the situational needs of each staff member.
The program should include a pre-testing of existing competencies. Refreshers can be developed as needed, often based on supervisor recommendation. Administrative support is crucial to implementing a core competencies program, since release time to attend the sessions and practice time after training must be authorized by supervisors. Participants and their supervisors must recognize the importance of attending all training sessions. One of the main benefits of such a program is that key system knowledge is not lost due to staff turnover.