Ciaran Talbot from the University of Manchester Library presented on the digital initiatives aimed at connecting library services with technology. Key elements included the implementation of chatbots and robotic process automation (RPA), emphasizing the importance of human relationships in these transitions. The focus is on starting small, fostering engagement, and viewing technology as a tool for collaboration rather than a standalone solution.

1. 4th Nov 2021
Being the human bridge
between library people and tech
Ciaran Talbot
Head of Digital Services
The University of Manchester Library
@CILIPEvents #CILIPDigital @ciaran_talbot

2. The University of Manchester Library

3. The University of Manchester Library
Our digital journey:
• Digital First initiative 2015
• Imagine2030 vision and strategy launched in December 2020
• Library Reshaping Project concluded August 2021

4. Being the human bridge
How has the Digital Team been that human bridge?
1. Chatbots
2. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

5. Chatbots
“the robots are coming”

6. Chatbots
Chatbots and Customer Services
• What did we do?

7. Chatbots

8. Chatbots
Key points
• Stakeholder analysis
• Demystification
• Relationships; leverage and build
Next steps?

9. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
• Research Services team
• Scenario: bibliometric analysis

10. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
RPA and Research Services
• What did we do?

11. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

12. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
Key points
• Positioning as an expert partner
• Relationships
• Think about the narrative
• Engagement
What next?

13. Conclusion
• Experiment – start small
• It is all about the people, not the tech
• Think about how you engage
• Patience and understanding
• Relationships
• Trusted expert partner
• Advocate
• Collaboration
Challenges ahead?

14. Thank you
@CILIPEvents #CILIPDigital @ciaran_talbot