Change Management in Libraries: The Case of the University of Ghana Library System (UGLS)

Abstract

In 2018, the University of Ghana Library System (UGLS) experienced an unprecedented rotation of staff within its main library and satellite libraries. The changes were long overdue, as the regular rotation of staff by the Human Resource and Organizational Development Directorate somehow, never affected library personnel. Fifty (50) Junior and senior library staff who had been in one position for more than a decade, were rotated within the UGLS. This paper reflects on how the change was achieved, the pre- and post-interviews of staff involved, and lessons learned one year later. Findings emphasize the value of communication and the structured process and transparency to make the change easier and implementation smoother. The paper concludes that regular rotation of staff and the management of such change are significant for the development of the UGLS and for the university as a whole. Recommendations for libraries in Ghana and in Africa embarking on similar staff rotation are captured in the paper.