The UHI Library Practitioner’s Group operates across one of the most geographically dispersed university networks in the UK, supporting learners and staff at 48 locations across the Highlands and Islands, Moray and Perthshire. UHI is an integrated university combining further and higher education. It’s the only institution of its kind in Scotland, and one of few in Europe. The library team’s structure is distinctive: rather than functioning as a centralised library service, it involves a collaborative partnership between local library staff at UHI partner institutions, and a small central team based in the University’s Executive Office.
This collective, known as the LPG, is not bound by traditional hierarchies. Instead, it thrives on mutual respect, shared purpose, and a deep commitment to equitable, student-centred support. Often staff hold dual roles, serving both their local academic community and the wider university through seconded responsibilities, such as subject librarian duties, copyright compliance, or open access support. While this model presents challenges, it also allows for a uniquely responsive and localised approach to service delivery.
The LPG collaborates to manage shared systems, co-develop services, and continuously improve the learning experience. Centralised electronic resources and systems are complimented by local knowledge and implementation. Decisions are made collectively to ensure relevance and efficiency. Regular formal and informal meetings, supported using digital platforms, allow the team to remain agile and connected despite physical distances.
The team have led on the adoption of new technologies, such as cloud-based systems, live chat services, and browser plug-ins like Lean Library Futures, to ensure students can access resources and support regardless of time or location. The team’s focuses on inclusivity, collaboration, and shared expertise, resulting in demonstrable impacts on student satisfaction, staff development, and sector engagement.
The UHI Library Practitioner’s Group exemplifies how a dispersed service can deliver high-quality, student-focused support through strategic collaboration and shared leadership.
