The purpose of staff visits between university libraries is to:
- support professional development and broaden staff expertise
- promote staff mobility and networking
- share best practices
- enhance a comprehensive understanding of the higher education library environment
A key principle of the staff visit is that the employment relationship with the home organisation remains unchanged throughout the visit. The visit takes place on the employee’s regular salary, which continues to be paid by the home organisation.
The employee prepares a travel plan, which must be approved by the employer. The employer covers all costs arising from the visit, including:
- travel expenses
- accommodation costs
- daily allowances (per diem)
Staff visits are based on voluntary participation and mutual agreement between the employee and the host library, as well as approval from the supervisors involved.
The duration of a staff visit is typically 2–5 working days.
Each university library aims to host at least one visiting staff member annually.
Guidelines for employees
Applying for a staff visit
- Before applying, discuss the staff visit with your supervisor (obtain approval and agree on how your duties will be managed during your absence).
- Contact the designated contact person at the university library you are interested in visiting.
- Submit an informal application including:
- your areas of interest
- a description of your current duties
- Agree on the timing and programme together with your supervisor and the host library.
- Prepare and submit a travel plan before the visit.
- Submit an expense claim to your home organisation after the visit.
Responsibilities
Home organisation (sending university library)
- Approves the travel plan
- Covers all costs (travel, accommodation, daily allowance)
- Reports completed visits to the FUN network coordination secretary
Host organisation (receiving university library)
- Reviews the application and confirms whether the visit can be arranged as requested
- Provides workspace
- Offers orientation
- Issues a certificate of the staff visit
Contact persons
Contact persons at university libraries are typically Deputy Directors or equivalent.
Agreement
Agreement on staff visits between university libraries (in Finnish).