Newcastle University

A central feature of the University's mission in Vision 2021 is to play a vital role in the development of the knowledge-based economy, with the creation and dissemination of knowledge at the heart of its purpose. The “knowledge business” of the University depends on information resources, services and technologies to support the core functions of Learning, Teaching and the Student Experience, Research and Innovation, and Engagement and Internationalisation. The Library has an important role to play in supporting the full range of these institutional strategies.

The Learning, Teaching and Student Experience Strategy emphasises the importance of providing access to environments within which effective learning can take place. This requires continuous improvements to be made to the quality of physical and virtual information environments, along with the range and accessibility of information resources and services. In its commitment to deliver teaching and facilitate applied learning of the highest standard, the Strategy specifically prioritises the development and embedding of e-learning technologies, which will provide an opportunity and a need to link the Library's resources seamlessly into the emerging Digital Campus. The Library will also make a key contribution to the success of Project 2012, by developing the digital library and improving access to facilities and resources by extending opening hours.

The Research and Innovation Strategy identifies the importance of the research environment and facilities, which will involve not only the provision of appropriate information resources, but also the development of new services, including large-scale data storage, management and preservation. The Library continues to be involved in the deployment of MyImpact, ensuring its effective contribution to preparations for the REF. The requirement for researchers to make their research outputs available on open access requires the Library to continue to manage open access publication services, alongside the institutional repositories.

In supporting the Engagement and Internationalisation Strategy, the Library will make a direct contribution to a number of specific projects and activities, particularly through initiatives focused on widening participation and links with local schools. Support for international projects will have a high priority, along with the development of links to local partners in the educational and cultural arena.