Open Libraries, Open Resources, Open to Change?: Library Organisational Development and Design to Improve and Support the Creation and Open Publication of Research Resources

Abstract

This paper takes a holistic and broad look at introducing and managing change in libraries to improve support for the creation and open publication of digital research resources. It uses a case study approach – the example being Victoria University of Wellington Library, New Zealand – to explore in depth organisational development and design. The case study, supplemented by the literature and other library examples, focuses upon changes initiated at Victoria to create a new Library Strategy, culture and organisational structure. Specifically it highlights the changes required to improve access to open research resources and to ensure ongoing innovation in this space during a period of constraint. The changes illustrated in the paper, and reflections on the global research and educational context, lead to consideration as to whether these particular developments at one university illustrate the maturing of the model of digitisation from special project to digitisation and digital publication as core business. Exploring this idea further the paper argues that the digitisation or creation of the research resource is only one isolated step. Improving access to open research resources requires integrated organisational development and design to ensure the provision and development of the full spectrum of enabling mechanisms and approaches; for example discovery (metadata) and access, supporting users (eg clear copyright, easy integration into learning objects), taking responsibility for long term access (preservation) and facilitating relationship development across library teams and between the library and Faculty. Finally, in considering future-proofing the organisation for further, ongoing and relentless change, the paper emphasises and explores approaches to innovation in this space, crucial if libraries are to remain flexible to meeting the requirements of researchers and students in the open access environment of tomorrow.