Library Collaboration between the University of Edinburgh and Freie Universität Berlin

Category: News

The Vice Presidents and Library Directors of the University of Edinburgh and Freie Universität Berlin have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) setting out ideas for closer collaboration between both university libraries.

The collaboration is designed to allow library staff in all roles to meet their counterparts in the partner institution. There will be a strong focus on professional development, sharing knowledge and professional experience, and encouraging best practice. Both libraries have undertaken to work together on:

• Innovative library services
• Professional development for staff
• Organisational change

The MoU outlines ideas for future collaboration from online events where staff can meet and exchange experiences to short exchange visits. In order to facilitate this collaboration, both universities will appoint a small team to co-ordinate activities.

Librarians Jeremy Upton (UoE) and Andreas Brandtner (FUB) both note how important it is for university libraries to form international relations and highlight the benefits of strategic partnerships for fostering staff exchange on all levels, especially in times of disruption and crisis.

We were delighted to hear this extremely exciting announcement. The new partnership between the University of Edinburgh’s Library & University Collections and the University Library (Universitätsbibliothek) of the Freie Universität Berlin is an excellent initiative that will provide new opportunities for staff from both institutions.