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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
www.sussex.ac.uk/library
