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.