Library Champions

In 2011/12 we set up a pilot scheme to recruit Library Champions from students on taught courses across the University. We are pleased to announce that the scheme will be continuing and expanding. The idea is to get students more involved in Library matters, whilst offering them a chance to augment their CVs and develop their skills in advocacy, negotiation, budgeting and promotion.

We seek to recruit a Champion from the Academic Reps for each subject area, both at Exeter and in Cornwall and we aim the scheme at final year undergraduates, as they have the most experience of being a student here. Where appropriate, we can recruit students at different degree stages, or postgraduates who also have significant experience of Exeter student life.

Library Champions meet regularly with their Subject Librarian, collate feedback on Library developments, act as a focus group on specific issues and report back via the Staff/Student Liaison Committee in their department. They have also been invited to add a student perspective to our staff training sessions.

As part of the Library's ongoing resourcing campaign, Library Champions have also been allocated a budget to spend on library books. This allows them to quickly respond to their peers' needs for extra copies, or any additional texts that the libraries require. This has proved very popular and will be continuing.

Champions can also count their time towards the volunteering element of the Exeter Award.

If you would like to know more about the scheme, please contact the Library Liaison Manager Caroline Gale.

Please watch our short film where two students talk about being part of the Library Champions Scheme during last year.