Communicating value through strategic engagement: Promoting awareness of the “value of libraries” through alignment across academic, student, and administrative affairs

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore ways in which “library value” may be communicated in a university setting through more effective engagement with strategic planning and a broader array of campus partners.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a case study of an academic library in which alignment with the university mission and strategic plan and alignment of library assessment efforts with the broader culture of assessment at the university have resulted in positive gains for the library in terms of campus engagement and recognition of library value.

Findings

This paper provides insights into successful strategies for improved communication of library value to senior leadership, new investment in library facilities, and enhanced opportunities for collaboration across the university on strategic initiatives including student success, innovation in teaching and scholarship, and community engagement.

Originality/value

This paper provides library leaders with new approaches to engagement with campus partners and senior academic leadership in promoting the library as a strategic resource worthy of investment in the twenty-first century.

Citation

Walter, S. (2018), "Communicating value through strategic engagement: Promoting awareness of the “value of libraries” through alignment across academic, student, and administrative affairs", Library Management, Vol. 39 No. 3/4, pp. 154-165. https://doi.org/10.1108/LM-09-2017-0093