The University Library Manchester 2035 needs
Every strategic plan is a bet on the future. Imagine2035 is our bet that the University Library can be more than excellent infrastructure. It can be a transformative force.
This transformation requires us to work differently. We must operate as both traditional academic library and technology amplifier, balance three equally important roles of teaching support, research excellence, and civic impact, lead through courage not consensus, measure impact not activity, build culture that costs us something, and create conditions for others to succeed.
The University of Manchester has declared its ambition for 2035. It asks: What knowledge does our age demand? How do we think bigger and work differently? How do we become the university others want to partner with? These questions are now ours to answer. Not through incremental improvement of existing services, but through fundamental reimagining of what a research library can be and do.
Imagine2035 commits us to achieving six transformations by 2035:
From service to engine of student success
Students help shape our decisions. We eliminate barriers and rank top quartile Russell Group for study spaces. Library teaching is visible, valued and growing. Students experience the Library as essential to their success.
From collection to world-class knowledge infrastructure
Our modern and special collections are recognised globally. The British Pop Archive projects our cultural leadership. The RACE Centre is the national anti-racism reference point. Our rare book and manuscripts collections are finally known and celebrated internationally. Our Modern Collections are central to both the Humanities and Science learning and research communities. Strategic storage ensures sustainable access and is planned for a 50-year period.
From neutral platform to truth-teller
We defend truth, critical thinking, and information integrity. We explore and navigate complex information landscapes. Our commitment to EDI and anti-racism through the RACE Centre demonstrates that truth-seeking and social justice are inseparable.
From local service to global cultural force
We project Manchester internationally through exhibitions and partnerships. Our collections, exhibitions and civic engagement produce globally significant outcomes.
From reactive to architect of our future
We embrace AI, pioneer new models, make strategic choices, lead sector conversations. Our One Library way of working eliminates friction. We operate as technology amplifier and multiplier as well as a traditional library.
From workplace to community where people thrive
Our inclusive culture becomes our competitive advantage. We achieve full carbon literacy. Staff demographics reflect Manchester's diversity. We create conditions for success rather than managing performance.
These six transformations, delivered through our strategic themes and our anchors, represent our answer to Manchester 2035.
This is the Library The University of Manchester needs.
The Library we've always been.
The Library we're becoming.