Staffing in academic libraries: key issues

Debby Shorley

Librarian

University of Sussex

The right people for the right jobs

a clear strategy for the library is essential

the staff structure must be fit for purpose

What is changing in the UK?

need for multi-skilled staff

more flexible labour market

impact of ICT

fast growing cost of wages

In the past

clear division between professionally qualified staff and the more junior workers

lack of clear management

hands off approach to staff

What has improved?

clear line management structures

tighter performance management

improved staff development

What is more difficult?

very restrictive laws

need to respect employees’ personal circumstances e.g. part-time working to accommodate family responsibilities

fast rise in salary costs

The good structure is

able to respond to changing needs

does not depend on specific individuals

has clear line management

is reviewed regularly to see that it is still what is needed

Each post must have

clear key responsibilities

accountability

a line manager

a full and up-to-date job description

an opportunity for personal career development

Performance management

clear tasks and targets

line management

regular appraisal

training and development

address all problems promptly and clearly otherwise they will be much more difficult to deal with

be fair and consistent in the way you manage staff

University Library

Debby Shorley

Librarian

University of Sussex

D.C.Shorley@sussex.ac.uk

www.sussex.ac.uk/library