University of Canterbury Change Proposal

LIANZA responds to University of Canterbury Change Proposal

LIANZA has reviewed the Change Proposal – Learning Resources, a document which forms part of the University of Canterbury's “Project Star”, and believes that there has not been sufficient thought given to the proposals affecting library and information services.

The University of Canterbury’s Change Proposal – Learning Resources, if implemented, would endanger the University as a centre of teaching, learning and research excellence because they would significantly reduce services available in the University’s Libraries. The permanent loss of expertise is especially worrying to the Association. The proposed disestablishment of 28% of the Library’s positions would see the University rushing into change which is expensive to implement and very costly in terms of the loss of institutional knowledge and proven ability.

LIANZA is further concerned that the University appears unaware of the importance of library qualifications in ensuring that a high level of professional services are supplied to members of the University. Professional librarians are well trained and qualified people, many of whom have studied at post-graduate level to master the needs of information services of all types.

LIANZA considers that these proposals are far-reaching in terms of the diminution of professionalism in the University Library system and that this will harm the reputation of the institution amongst potential students, the research community and prospective employees.

LIANZA believes that the University of Canterbury Change Proposal – Learning Resources is flawed in its assumptions and analysis of the current performance of the University Library systems, the role of libraries in a successful academic environment and the role of qualified professional staff and leadership in making an academic library and a university successful. LIANZA believes that the proposals for change are too wide-ranging and do not take into account the impact that dissolution of so many positions will have.

LIANZA supports the change in process, to undertake an independent review by external experts and extend the date for submissions in the library and information field.

We trust this review will make more sustainable recommendations for a new and better structure to support the needs of an academic library service in the 21st century.

ENDS

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