Abstract
This lightning talk will describe the development and early implementation of an internal Scholarship Community of Practice designed for library staff. The CoP is intentionally community‑driven and optional, emphasizing engagement rather than membership. Its purpose is to create an inclusive environment where staff can explore, strengthen, and share scholarship skills and experiences navigating the wide variety of scholarship opportunities.
As our library shifts from a historically staff‑only structure to a new model that incorporates faculty designations for certain roles, it is essential to create inclusive spaces where all personnel feel supported in scholarly and service-related work. Many library employees may not identify as “scholars,” especially when scholarship can be perceived as exclusive, tied to faculty status, or limited to original research. The CoP aims to counter these perceptions by offering a welcoming, low-barrier environment for anyone, regardless of role, specialty, or experience, to explore and engage. Whether individuals are unsure how to begin, seeking different pathways to involvement, or requesting guidance on writing or presentations, the CoP is designed to honor the expertise across all positions and make scholarly participation accessible and achievable.