Student Assistants are often hired in a university music library on the basis of their availability to work the hours needed rather than on a background in music or an understanding of libraries. Yet they are often called upon to assist patrons in the absence of the music librarian or the permanent staff member. California State University, Hayward, is a medium sized, ethnically diverse public university located in a suburb of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Student assistants work alone evenings and weekends.
In the Spring of 1997 the Library Coordinators began to offer a training program for all student assistants throughout the Library. The Librarian checks over the completed exercises and gives extra help to those who need it. Although we know the training efforts bring positive results, we are reminded constantly that more work needs to be done. Thus, we continually reinforce the training in order to create a helpful environment for our patrons, and a positive, instructional environment for our students that prepares them well for the work world that awaits them after graduation.