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Core values

The Library core values govern the way we work, our approach to customers and to each other. We believe in:

  • Engagement and collaboration
  • Customer-focus
  • Innovation and improvement
  • Valuing each other
  • Being part of a wider community

Engagement and collaboration

As Library staff we will:

  • help the Library achieve its strategic aims
  • take opportunities to be involved in planning, consultation and discussion
  • understand our role and responsibilities in the Library
  • be committed to our own training and development
  • think beyond our own teams and share our knowledge and skills.

As Library managers we will:

  • commit to and help develop our strategy
  • work and think Library-wide, breaking down barriers to achieving Library goals
  • involve our teams in decision making and shaping our services
  • encourage teamworking and sharing of information to solve problems and improve our services
  • keep our teams well-informed and respond to their suggestions and feedback.

Customer-focus

As Library staff we will:

  • be open to changes that provide better customer service
  • be professional and willing to help customers
  • ensure the Library is a clean, tidy and welcoming place
  • ensure we present ourselves in a way that inspires confidence from our customers
  • be prepared to go the extra mile to deliver excellent customer service.

As Library managers we will:

  • ensure that all we do is of value to our customers
  • listen and respond to our customers’ feedback
  • seek ways to improve our services
  • recruit and retain staff who deliver excellent customer service.

Innovation and improvement

As Library staff we will:

  • always aspire to do things better
  • have a “can do” attitude and be open to change
  • question how we do things and why
  • be willing to try new ways of doing things
  • be unafraid to make suggestions and investigate problems.

As Library managers we will:

  • be creative in developing services and systems
  • promote flexibility and support change with our teams
  • encourage our teams to explore external trends and developments which could prompt innovation
  • listen to ideas and seek novel solutions to problems.

Valuing each other

As Library staff we will:

  • treat colleagues politely and fairly
  • debate constructively with each other and acknowledge diverse opinions
  • recognise we can all make mistakes – and learn from them
  • be open to suggestions and act on feedback.

As Library managers we will:

  • commit to equality of treatment and opportunity
  • give our teams learning opportunities and the chance to develop new skills
  • hold regular one-to-one meetings where we provide feedback on performance
  • celebrate the success of teams and individuals.

Being part of a wider community

As Library staff we will:

  • support the University’s strategy and values in our work
  • look for opportunities to contribute to University-wide activities
  • follow best practice in health and safety in our roles
  • actively seek to reduce waste, maximise recycling and save energy.

As Library managers we will:

  • ensure the Library supports the University’s strategy and values
  • promote opportunities for teams and individuals to engage with University-wide activities
  • ensure our teams understand and meet their health and safety responsibilities
  • ensure our services and practices reduce our green impact and promote sustainability.