Library and Knowledge Services Manager Review

I manage the hospital medical Library, co-ordinating staff and activities. I am responsible for strategically planning the development of LIbrary services including knowledge management activities, evidence provision and document supply along with the decision making responsibility for procurement of suitable library resources. I manage and report on a range of activities to ensure Library services meet the needs of the organisation and the requirements of NHS England.

So far in the course I have developed my reflective skills and been able to look more critically at how and why I behave in certain ways at work. I have also developed time management skills in being able to balance work and study whilst still being responsive to changing needs.

The programme content is very enjoyable - the tutors have been engaging for the most part and there is plenty of support available if needed. The pace is fast, although this is to be expected in this type of programme it can be a little overwhelming at times. We have been encouraged to form strong bonds as a cohort which makes the sessions more fun and provides another layer of support.

The structure has been well laid out - although the pace seems to be increasing. Sometimes the sessions online and in person may have been better suited to the opposite format but I can understand the choice to make a predictable pattern of attendance. The days are structured well with plenty of breaks to make the content easier to manage.

My employer has been very supportive - mostly through my line manager who has attended all of my review sessions and takes the time to discuss the course with me during one to one meetings. I have been given time to complete required work, this is easier for me as I manage my own time and activities on a day to day basis.

There is plenty of support available - from tutors, the study skills team and the skills coach. I found it particularly helpful that they arranged for specific skills sessions for our cohort in the run up to our first assignment submission as this helped to build confidence in the writing of the assignment.

This course is helping me to apply theory to the activities that I undertake and to be able to look at activities and behaviours through a fresh lens. Some of the topics are very relatable to my role on a practical level and are teaching me new techniques and approaches that I intend to put into practice.

There are health and wellbeing events organised, and there used to be a range of social/sports activities although I dont know which ones have returned post-covid. Our wider department have recently introduced a quarterly calendar of social events, both in work and outside, that are open to everyone on an opt-in basis

Yes

For the most part people are friendly, committed and willing to work together to reach the best possible outcomes for both staff and patients. There is a range of support available to promote health and wellbeing along with plenty of opportunities for learning and professional development at a variety of levels.

Change can be fast-paced in the NHS so be prepared for this. Keeping the core goals of the organisation in mind help to ensure that you focus on what really matters. Dont forget to take the time to look after your own health and wellbeing and to ask for help if you need it.