Issues in library human resources management

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide a discussion of the benefits of succession planning and open communication between administration and staff when an employee leaves their employment at the library. Design/methodology/approach – This paper used the personal expertise of the author who has been a professor of human resources management as well as a library consultant to all types of libraries for over 15 years. Findings – This paper proposes that every library organization should follow a five‐step succession planning strategy to guarantee a smooth transition when an employee leaves for whatever reason. The paper also proposes an open and honest communication policy when an employee is terminated to ease the anxiety of the rest of the staff. Originality/value – This paper helps the library director and the library department manager more intelligently handle the necessary transitions when an employee leaves their employment.