Abstract:
In 2016 Libraries and Learning Services (LLS) at the University of Auckland developed a vision and a strategy for the future. The vision and strategy looks forward and considers new possibilities to enable LLS to respond and contribute most effectively to the University’s strategic directions and aspirations. The vision and strategy has been driven out of the need to inform the University’s long term capital plan, and influenced by the faculty curriculum reviews that are currently in progress in the University. A review of Engineering Library services was conducted in October 2016. Several recommendations were approved, the most significant being the closure of the Engineering Library as a physical service point. This article explores the drivers for and process of closing a Library. Dealing with a large and underutilized physical collection was a significant body of work that needed to be tackled. More importantly though, was the human element and leading staff through a difficult change process. Coming out the other side, this article will also look at how services have evolved and the new opportunities that emerged for LLS Staff, students and the University as a result of change.
