Special Collections and Heritage Network (SCHN)

The RLUK Special Collections and Heritage Network (SCHN) is a professional peer network for RLUK members leading cultural heritage activities within member libraries. Research libraries offer a variety of cultural heritage services and are custodians for a multitude of different types of collections. Special Collections and Heritage professionals are an integral part of research at institutional, national and international levels, acting as partners and collaborators and as primary investigators. Members of the network might include those working with/in archives, rare books, art and object collections, museums, galleries, conservation and their allied services.

The SCHN will act as a forum for discussion, harness RLUK members’ collective experience and expertise, and will be responsible for the development and delivery of programmes of work in direct support of a network action plan.

SCHN News

Upcoming SCHN events

Terms of Reference

Joanne Fitton
University of Leeds

Daryl Green 
University of Edinburgh

Convenor duties:

  • To organise two events per year, with the support of the RLUK office.
  • To liaise with the RLUK Office and Board regarding the current and future development of the group.
  • The term of service for SCHN Convenors is 2 years. Convenors are selected by nomination and election.

The SCHN will be open to members of an RLUK library who are involved in the development and delivery of special collections and heritage services. The network is designed for senior members of staff who are engaged in strategic development and management. Members will be nominated (by name rather than by job title) by the Director of their respective institution. Member libraries can nominate up to two members of the SCHN as appropriate. Only one individual can hold voting rights. Some SCHN meetings may be held as open meetings, allowing multiple colleagues from a single institution to attend.

  • The intellectual input of the group is the responsibility of its members, led by two elected Convenors. The Executive will provide logistical and administrative assistance when needed.
  • Convenors will serve a term of two years, with replacements sought through nomination and election.
  • The RLUK administrative secretary will be present to take notes and assist in the compilation of the report to the group members and the Board.

Travel and expenses of group members will be borne by their institution. Expenses of invited speakers will be covered by RLUK subject to prior agreement from the RLUK Treasurer.

The network has an allocated yearly budget at its disposal to cover the cost of events e.g. venue hire, catering etc.