FDLP Succession Planning

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:

• Avoids interruption of processing publications and providing services for patrons
• Preserves institutional knowledge
• Documents full scope of the duties and requirements of the FDLP 
• Contains information for staff training             

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.