CB Resourcing in partnership with CILIP has recently explored developments within the higher education sector and the current & future skill requirements of library staff. As part of the study they undertook a survey and semi-structured interviews. 

The research highlights that libraries support student recruitment and development; work in complex financial environments; and are required to illustrate value and how they support their institutions objectives.  In addition technology is continuing to heavily influence the work and services offered by libraries. 

Library staff require a broad range of skills to successfully support students and their institution, including soft skills such as diplomacy and resilience.  Current and future skills that library staff require include:

• General management, comprising financial and staff management.
• Customer service.
• Advocacy, persuasion and influencing skills.
• Digital related skills.

You can discover the full findings of the research in the report, which  is available from the CILIP website.