Last Friday a number of staff attended a Library Issues, Blockages, Opportunities Workshop, part of a series of workshops for Learning Resources and SMT to begin the process of developing the vision, strategic and operational plans.

The workshop prioritized, shared and discussed ideas, then voted on the key focus issues for the Library:

1. Re-envision use of physical spaces
2. Easy access to collections
3. Deliver customer centered support
4. Embed academic literacy
5. Support and enable cultural change
6. Selling ourselves and our services

Other issues identified were champions and integrators for e-learning; become more efficient and effective; exploit unique collections; and develop the right skills. “Have a shared vision and strategy” was also identified as a key issue, but it was agreed this was an outcome of the process.

On Tuesday a smaller group of staff attended a Customer Value and Discovery Segmentation and Study Design workshop to identify groups of library customers to attend four sessions to provide feedback on services. This workshop also looked at the actions from the first workshop as we ran out of time on Friday.

The workshop participants agreed to further action. Task Groups based on these 6 Key Focus Areas will be formed, and input and participation will be invited from Library staff. The Task Groups will follow a structured methodology to generate ideas and translate these into reality. It is acknowledged that it is a difficult time for staff at the moment with earthquakes and other pressures, however putting the effort into this process now will make it easier in the long run as we can focus our resources and energy on the priorities and not get lost on the details. The Library Management Group will monitor the progress of the Task Groups and the aim is to have a lot of the work completed by August.

We want all staff to get involved in the process so please think about how you could contribute.

Anne and Heather.