Guidelines for Preparing Self-Evaluations

The Librarians Association of the University of California-Berkeley, with the advice and support of CAPA, have developed the following guidelines for composing the self-evaluation. These guidelines, which are based on the language of the APM, should clarify and simplify the review process.

The candidate's self-evaluation is a concise narrative statement citing the most significant achievements of the review period in the four review criteria and weighs heavily in the review process. The candidate's judgment in writing a self-evaluation and in assembling appropriate documentation is an indication of professional judgment which reviewers take into account.

The self-evaluation is most effective when it:

  • is succinct, well-organized, and coherent.
  • takes into account suggestions for professional development made by the review initiator, CAPA, University Librarian, or other administrative officers in connection with the candidate's last review.
  • emphasizes and evaluates the impact on the library and profession of major accomplishments of the review period, indicating their relative importance.
  • is realistic, and mentions failures and frustrations as well as successes.
  • identifies specific sections of co-authored reports and specific areas of committee work to which the candidate contributed, evaluating their subsequent influence in the library or profession.
  • indicates the judgment the candidate has exercised in making professional decisions on the job and in career planning.

Please follow these guidelines carefully. Their use will speed the review process while giving a clear picture of your professional contributions and achievements.