Re‐inventing the library: The role of strategic planning, marketing and external relations, and shared services at the National Library of Scotland

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to explore the impact of strategic planning, marketing and external relations, and shared services on library development.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses the National Library of Scotland as a case study.

Findings

The introduction and development of strategic planning has provided a clear basis though which NLS has defined and achieved a new role within and beyond Scotland. Longer term planning is being informed by Thriving and Surviving – a future library project which has identified the transition to digital, the need for an outward focus and the development of an agile library as fundamental to a successful future for NLS. Strategic planning also supported the successful development of new legislation for NLS which was passed by the Scottish Parliament in 2012. Marketing and external relations have been vital in promoting the library's role, and widening the use made of its collections and services. The development of “shared services” is changing the way back office services are provided, achieving some savings and adding operational resilience.

Originality/value

The paper will be of interest and relevance to library managers seeking to address the issues facing libraries in the 21st century who are seeking management tools and techniques that will help them with the challenges they face.

Citation

Wade, M. (2013), "Re‐inventing the library: The role of strategic planning, marketing and external relations, and shared services at the National Library of Scotland", Library Review, Vol. 62 No. 1/2, pp. 59-66. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242531311328177