Modernising libraries

Today, libraries are losing many of their mundane tasks like cataloguing and managing large paper-based collections. Instead, organisations want desktop delivery of resources including books, journals, reports, document delivery, web-links, data-sources and access to well organised internal document collections.

"I wanted to ensure that the ICAEW's Library & Information Service maintained its leading edge internationally, so we selected a team of information and knowledge management consultants, TFPL Ltd, to work with us in reviewing all aspects of library and information services. This resulted in a 5 year change strategy which gained the approval of our Board."
Susan Moore, Head of Library and Information Service (LIS), Institute of Chartered Accountants for England and Wales (ICAEW)

With more and more staff working flexibly out of the office, from home or client sites, access to information must be seamless through the web interface. Cost saving is paramount, both in terms of floor space – many offices are leasing out some of their high premium space – and resource procurement – organisations are moving to central ordering / purchasing of published materials which allows for rationalisation of what is bought, better negotiation of licensing for electronic journals, e-books, etc.

Opportunities exist for library and information staff to acquire new skills to support the "modern library" in supporting new modes of information access and the skills required to make the best use of them.

TFPL helps clients with library modernisation

TFPL can carry out a Library and Information Service (LIS) review by:

• Understanding the business, how the LIS must support its aims and objectives;
• Identifying user requirements to do their jobs efficiently and effectively;
• Developing recommendations and a roadmap for the LIS to meet both business and user needs in terms of: information provision; information and knowledge management; providing value added services to staff.

TFPL consultants have a wide range of experience of working with organisations in both the public and private sectors to help them: work smarter, save money, consolidate e-access to information through a 'one stop shop', save time looking for information, and provide value added services to support the business or service development.

If you have any enquiries, please contact TFPL Consultancy at consultancy@tfpl.com.