Strategic Engagement: New Models of Relationship Management for Academic Librarians

Eldridge, Jeanette; Fraser, Katie; Simmonds, Tony; Smyth, Neil

Abstract

How do we best bridge the gap between the Library and the diverse academic communities it serves? Librarians need new strategies for engagement. Traditional models of liaison, aligning solutions to disciplines, are yielding to functional specialisms, including a focus on building partnerships. This paper offers a snapshot of realignment across the Russell Group from subject support to relationship management. It then follows the journey of a newly-formed Faculty and School Engagement Team. Techniques are explored for building relationship capital, anchored to a model Strategic Engagement Cycle. Theory is contrasted with the challenges of securing real buy-in to new ways of working amid diverging agendas and assumptions, notably within the Library itself. Consideration is given to the retention of aspects of subject librarian roles. Investment in a relationship management function demands staunch and ongoing commitment to fulfil its promise, not only from its performers but from across the library community.

Citation

Eldridge, J., Fraser, K., Simmonds, T., & Smyth, N. (2016). Strategic Engagement: New Models of Relationship Management for Academic Librarians. New Review of Academic Librarianship, 22(2-3), 160-175. https://doi.org/10.1080/13614533.2016.1193033

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jun 3, 2016
• Online Publication Date: Jun 3, 2016
• Publication Date: Jul 2, 2016
• Deposit Date: Aug 23, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Aug 23, 2016
• Journal: New Review of Academic Librarianship
• Print ISSN: 1361-4533
• Electronic ISSN: 1740-7834
• Publisher: Routledge
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 22
• Issue: 2-3
• Pages: 160-175
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/13614533.2016.1193033
• Keywords: Strategic Engagement, Communication, Academic Librarians, Relationship Management
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/796759
• Publisher URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13614533.2016.1193033
• Additional Information: Peer Review Statement: The publishing and review policy for this title is described in its Aims & Scope.; Aim & Scope: http://www.tandfonline.com/action/journalInformation?show=aimsScope&journalCode=racl20
• Contract Date: Aug 23, 2016