Cohorts Building Community: Fostering Connection in Virtual Cohorts

Abstract

Research can be a lonely endeavor; yet it is a requirement for many academic librarian jobs. Additionally, some librarians in positions where it isn’t required are also interested, but not all library schools prepare librarians to engage in research. As such, on-the-job training and mentorship can be effective strategies for gaining research experience. Without help, librarian researchers may feel they need to conduct projects based solely on institutional need or use only the methodology with which they feel most confident. They may also allow imposter syndrome and a lack of confidence prevent them from beginning a project. Conducting research doesn’t only require training and top-down guidance; researchers also benefit from engaging in a community of peers.