Submitted by Clare Yow, UBC Library Communications Coordinator
UBC Library Communications and Marketing supports the programs and services of 15 library branches across both UBC campuses. We are a small and nimble team of just four individuals with varied backgrounds in libraries, publishing, design, coupled with a keen love of books!
UBC Library’s Communications and Marketing team
Our team lineup has shifted significantly over the course of the last year but we remain engaged by the varied and creative projects that we get to undertake. Whether promoting our rare Harry Potter book collection exhibited at the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra or interviewing faculty and students about how Open Access at the Library impacts their research, each day is unique and we are energized by the neat ways people interact with UBC Library!
This summer, our director Becky kindly gave us little succulents and printouts of the GDS team’s unofficial guiding principles. I have my poster tacked up next to my computer and it serves as a helpful and healthy reminder that “it’s ok to forget things” or “it’s ok to go somewhere else to concentrate.” I believe that a workplace that encourages such a culture helps foster creativity, joy, and authenticity.
A reminder of our team’s workplace culture
As we are all such artistic individuals, it’s only natural that we share things that inspire us. In our weekly editorial meetings, Michelle recently initiated a standing agenda item called “What I’m Loving.” We take turns sharing design concepts that are striking and fun, but that can also help inform future projects.
We also implemented Slack a short while ago and the benefits of it are immense! Our inboxes are happier and, as we are an extremely GIF- and emoji-friendly team, we get to smile and laugh a lot more frequently.
Amidst all that we have to work on, our unit enjoys finding UBC activities to attend together – whether it’s an event organized by UBC Library’s Exceptional Workplace Committee, Your Hot Lunch, or a Museum of Anthropology exhibit.
Being engaged means continually finding time to check in with each other in the hall, to share chocolates, tea or a laugh, and to celebrate work accomplishments or special occasions with nibbles and a drink. Little things and moments certainly keep us bonded as a small team!
We met Professor Ono on his first day of work in August (it was also Michelle’s first day!)
After wrapping up a UBC Library Love booth for students on their last day of classes
Testing our Stravinsky selfie frame before debuting it at the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
Have a story to share about what you’re doing to create an engaging workplace in your department and the impact for staff and faculty? Please send your submissions to communications@hr.ubc.ca