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Succession planning is not usually a high priority until it becomes a necessity and time is short. As of July 2025, this guide provides recommendations for a smooth transition from a predecessor to a successor on how to manage a Federal depository library (FDL) collection. The resources may also help non-depository staff and administrators fulfill the responsibilities of a FDL during a depository coordinator vacancy.
The United States National Museum Library in the 1880s (Image source: Smithsonian SIA Acc. 11-006 [MAH-3666])
Change does not always come with advance warning. Having a succession plan:
A succession plan is for anyone who works with FDLP information, especially the depository coordinator, technical services staff, reference librarians, and student workers who have FDL responsibilities. Not all parts of a succession plan will apply to all library staff or those involved in FDLP operations. Tailor your succession plan to your library operations and workflow.
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Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP)
For questions or comments, contact the FDLP Resource Guides Team at @askGPO