Reconceptualization of Special Collections, University of Maryland

Reconceptualization of Special Collections,

University of Maryland

Desider Vikor

MARAC Fall 2011 MeetingBethlehem, Pennsylvania October 21, 2011

Impetus for Change at UM

(1) broader organizational/institutional factors (strategic plans for campus and Libraries(2) new leadership (campus and

Libraries)(3) digital technologies(4) reality of resources

Framework for Change

Switch: How to ChangeWhen Change Is Hardby Chip and Dan Heath(Broadway Books, 2010)

Switch

The basic problem: brain has two independent systems at work at all times.

(1) the emotional side: instinctive, feels pain and pleasure; image: the Elephant(2) the rational side (reflective or conscious system): deliberates and analyzes and looks into the future; image: the Elephant’s Rider

Switch model

Three-part framework that can guide you in any situation where you need to change behavior:

• Direct the Rider: - Find the bright spots - Script the critical moves - Point to the destination

Switch model (contd.)

• Motivate the Elephant: - Find the feeling - Shrink the Change; - Grow your people

• Shape the Path: - Tweak the environment - Build habits - Rally the herd

Special Collections/Hornbake: Setting Sail for an Exceptional Future

Where we’ve been… Where we’re going….

Compass Points

• We will be creative and responsive to change; identities are flexible and adaptable based on organizational priorities.

• Everyone will have a baseline of knowledge about our Special Collections; people will have specialties that will develop and change over time.

Compass Points (contd.)

• We will value individual expertise and subject knowledge, and use them to support our strategic priorities.

• We share ownership of the future of Special Collections.

• Special Collections prides itself in placing the needs and expectations of our users foremost

Collection Areas

• University of Maryland • State of Maryland • Broadcasting and Journalism• Culture and Literature • U.S. Social and Economic Movements

Functional Groups

• Researcher Experience• Access to Collections• Instruction & Outreach

Thanks!

Desider Vikor

Director of Collection Mgmt.

& Special Collections

[email protected]