Managing university libraries: A cross Australian/UK study of second tier managers in university libraries

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the management function of second tier posts in both Australia and the UK university libraries, including the identification of trends about their demography and responsibility range. The study aims to examine the major managerial challenges they face as individuals as well as the challenges for the wider university library. Various aspects of the skills needed by second tier university library manager are to be explored.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered using an online questionnaire completed by second tier university library managers in both Australia and the UK

Findings

Various trends are shown about the age, length of time in post and intended retirement age of second tier mangers as well as the range of their responsibilities. Key challenges are determined for them as individuals as well as those for the wider university library.

Research limitation/implications

The study demonstrates how effective research can be done across countries relying solely on information and communication technologies (ICT) for data collection and project communication/management.

Practical implications

Clear direction and guidance is provided by the outcomes of the study into the development of future second tier university library managers

Originality/value

No other study has been published in this area for over ten years and very little has taken place before then. It is also the first cross‐national investigation on second tier roles.

Citation

Walton, G., Burke, L. and Oldroyd, M. (2009), "Managing university libraries: A cross Australian/UK study of second tier managers in university libraries", Library Management, Vol. 30 No. 4/5, pp. 240-252. https://doi.org/10.1108/01435120910957904