RLUK and other library consortiums collaborate on Jisc’s Digital transformation library lens

Developed in collaboration with senior library leaders and representatives from the Society of College, National, and University Libraries (SCONUL), Research Libraries UK (RLUK), and the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), the digital transformation library lens offers a library focused perspective on our established framework for digital transformation in higher education.

It highlights how library and archive services contribute meaningfully to institutional change across the six key areas of the framework: organisational digital culture, knowledge creation and innovation, knowledge development, knowledge management and use, knowledge exchange and partnerships, and digital and physical infrastructure.

Harnessing the value of libraries as critical partners

University libraries have long been pioneers in digital innovation, offering significant expertise to lead on digital collections, scholarly communications, and student digital capabilities. Yet, many libraries have stated they don’t often feel sufficiently involved in institution-wide digital transformation efforts, or that their contributions are not always recognised.

The digital transformation library lens aims to change that by providing a structured, evidence-based approach for library leaders to amplify, enhance and evidence their role, impact and expertise. It provides practical examples of how libraries contribute to institution-wide digital transformation goals and can enhance provision in areas such as:

• Developing AI strategies and digital wellbeing initiatives
• Enhancing research infrastructure and open access policies
• Co-creating inclusive digital environments and learning spaces
• Supporting evidence-based decision-making through data and analytics

David Prosser, Executive Director of RLUK says:

‘Jisc’s library lens for digital transformation is an excellent tool to support and guide service leaders to play an essential role in digital transformation projects, helping them lend their expertise to business partner across the organisation on mission-critical projects.”

“Our libraries have been at the forefront of digital transformation over the past 25 years. Whether it is the shift to online delivery of books and journals, the digitisation of special collections, or the provision of online research and learning environments, libraries have continued to innovate to meet the needs of researchers and students.

“Libraries have a unique view of the whole of the university – across all disciplinary subjects, and from undergraduates to leading researchers. As such they are ideally placed to contribute to the institution’s digital transformation and the library lens provides the perfect framework for libraries to take their learning and experience to the wider university.’

Find out more on Jisc’s website.