Marlène Rak.


the way was just right, without ever becoming overbearing or intrusive. I appreciated the fact that all those involved took the time to get in touch and introduce themselves prior to the event so that it felt a bit like catching up with old friends by the time we got to meet in person, right before the event. The atmosphere was professional yet relaxed, facilitated by our warm and personable Chair, John Vincent. We all commented on how much bigger than expected the keynote room looked. The set-up, however, was impeccable and backed up with faultless tech support, which immediately put us at ease. The session was well attended yet another testament to the commitment and dedication of our fellow practitioners. The level of engagement shown after the talks, along with the nods spotted along the way, was rather encouraging. It demon- strated the value in holding such events face-to-face. The circumstances of the world we are living in are still very much being described as post-pandemic and, despite the many recent advancements in spheres like generative AI, the effects and implications of Covid-19 on our profession as a whole are palpable.


These implications were brilliantly examined by my two fellow speakers, Deborah and Sarah, who looked at net- work activities (in Deborah’s case) and mentoring (in Sarah’s case) through the prism of leadership for changing times. Indeed, two key elements of modern librarianship stood out from their pres- entations: being kind and demonstrating the ability to listen, respectively. This emphasis on leadership with a human face (or rather, a human touch) resonated in me as well as the audience, for what is the role of a good leader if not to inspire and demonstrate fairness and understanding? Support, cooperation and innova-


July-August 2023


tion are, I believe, the necessary drivers behind the implementation of any and every successful measure. I chose to focus my paper on some of the incredible work that has been taking place at UWE these past few years, to engage its stakeholders and adopt a flexible and dynamic approach that is both sustainable and inclusive. Empowering our students by providing them with the right platforms (notice the plural form) for all their voices to be heard; diversifying not only our collections, but also our student body and workforce, and eradicating gaps in attainment. All this whilst also working in partnership within our region to address educational and social inequalities – as enshrined in UWE’s Strategy 2030: Transforming Futures – encouraging our communities to speak up and challenge others when something doesn’t feel right. Also giving employees ample CPD opportunities as well as promoting wellbeing amongst colleagues (and students) through the promotion of learning days, craft events, staff networks, history months, etc. These are just some of the initiatives in place to foster this sense of belonging and forward push.


You will have noted that many of these mechanisms are in place to benefit staff


and students equally. I mentioned, during the live session, the holistic approach fostered in UWE’s craft events and the almost cathartic effect it has on some of the attendees. This takes us back to the central role of humanity in everything that we do, and ties in with the themes of personal resilience, attracting and retain- ing talent and fostering psychologically safe environments that were examined during the Conference. Some of you have asked me, Deborah and Sarah, about how to address and combat occupational burnout. There is, sadly, no magic recipe, but having supportive and forward-look- ing leaders certainly goes a long way. And remember that there is a leader in every one of us, so don’t be afraid to listen to your inner voice, suggest, propose, and work hard towards those goals you wish to see come true.


The very fact that sessions such as this one are in place to offer new professionals the opportunity to voice their thoughts and ideas in a truly welcoming and condu- cive setting is a testament to the maturity and responsiveness of our profession at large. Being able to present at the CILIP Conference represents a real milestone in my life as an information professional. Thank you. IP


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