The Library at Ryerson University: A Case Study in Relationship-Building and Academic Collaboration

abstract

Ryerson University has grown from a relatively small polytechnical institute to a large comprehensive university, with a focus on innovation. The Library has transformed itself over the last decade by closely aligning strategic planning with University planning; embracing the entrepreneurial culture in its physical expansion and collaborative initiatives, and highlighting the expertise of its staff. The study outlines the steady progress through relationship-building in a culture of openness and a focus on common goals to reposition the library in the university’s academic mission. By 2017, a number of faculty and student library initiatives were underway, enhancing the library’s position as an innovator, and ensuring its continued high profile and strong reputation within the university and beyond. Examples include a digital media lab and collaboratory, a convergence of Archives, Special Collections, and the Digital Humanities centre, a leading role in Open Educational Resources, and an association with the University’s digital incubator.

Keywords:

• Academic staff
• collaboration
• leadership
• library buildings and space
• university libraries

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.