Functioning staff or staffing functions?

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to offer a model for staffing library functions that is free from the limits of rigid job descriptions. Design/methodology/approach – The paper introduces the concept of fluid job descriptions and then explains how to use the concept to balance workloads and solve other problems. Findings – Using this concept allows the best possible use of available talent and skills. Practical implications – Library directors can make their staff assets go further by avoiding the limitations that rigid job descriptions impose. Social implications – This model has the potential for increasing job satisfaction of library staffs as well as the efficiency with which they work together in serving their constituencies. Originality/value – The value of the article is in improving library efficiency, along with employee job satisfaction, by introducing more flexibility into staff workload assignments.