"Changing technology, evolving research methods and requirements, shifting expectations in teaching and learning, and the ongoing transformation of the scholarly communication landscape have all given libraries more opportunities than ever to participate in the full research lifecycle, including areas previously considered outside their scope.
As a result, libraries have been seeking ways to evolve the liaison role and its influences on collections, services, and the identity of both libraries and librarians. Some changes have been more fluid while others have been more prescriptive. Some roles have shifted in direct response to a specific need, for example, supporting research data management and funding compliance. In other cases, anticipated needs such as lab integrated support and grant collaboration are driving the shift. In all cases, libraries are grappling with how best to position their liaisons for success.
In this session, we will provide a brief overview of what is happening in our libraries and pose questions to guide a focused discussion now that these changes are in full swing. Participants will share lessons learned while gleaning best practices regarding the ways in which changing roles and new paths have simultaneously opened opportunities and posed sticky challenges. Finally, the session will help foster a community centered on better understanding how evolving liaison roles influence the way libraries conceptualize collections."