CSR Case Study - Birmingham Library Service

Julie Gallimore

Birmingham Library Service

Marcus, Community Access Officer
B.Eng. Engineering Science & Technology, Loughborough University
MSc. Work Design & Ergonomics, University of Birmingham
M.A. Art & Education, University of Central England

How did you decide that this role matched your own personal values?

Library service offers freely available services to everyone, for learning, reading and leisure. There is also the possibility to promote and explore particular relevant issues, like those of Fair Trade, Trade Justice, Anti-Slavery, diversity, equality and creative learning which are also personal values.

Were these values assessed or talked about at application and interview stage?

Yes, my particular responsibility was to run anti-slavery projects in youth and community groups. I used my experiences as a self employed community arts worker and as a creative learning officer for the library service. Being able to draw on this experience was most important in securing the job. The previous project I had run was 'Fair Trading' with a cluster of schools, covering issues of Fair Trade and its history.

Did you explore other career areas/organisations prior to securing this job?

I took some time to explore quite varied options. I had been completing a PhD at Swansea University on Computer Crash Simulation. After one year I decided I did not have the interest to keep going. I explored other options in care homes, hospitals, adult education, youth work, play leader and as a self-employed artist before working for the library.

What kinds of values are important to you?

Freedom of information for all, and support for everyone who needs it to achieve their potential

How have your values come into play on a day to day basis?

I arrange and plan workshops in schools, youth centres, community centres and libraries. I manage a budget to pay for events, performances, displays, workshops and other expenses. I work with other artists to deliver workshops.

All work promotes library services, Birmingham City Archives and campaigns to raise awareness of slavery and related issues. I am putting together a resource to be used educationally, but also to act as a permanent record of events in Birmingham in 2007 to commemorate the abolition of the slave trade.

Do you think there is a particular skill set that goes with applying values in the workplace?

The confidence to express your values and the ability to listen and respond to others is important. I also find it helpful to be able to express yourself and be happy in your work and treat others well.

Do you have ideas about how your career might develop in the future?

I am hoping to continue working in a similar field of arts and education.

How do you think your job choice/application of values to the workplace is different from the career choices of your peers?

I have chosen a career which integrates completely with my life, is constantly satisfying, and probably earn a little less than I might otherwise.

What advice would you offer to prospective students hoping to go into work that in some way matched their values?

If you don't follow your dreams you may end up richer, but less fulfilled. If your only ambition in your work is to earn money you will end up feeling hollow and unsatisfied. Much of your waking life will be working, so it's important to get satisfaction from it. Have the courage to try out different things to find out what makes you happy.


Created on: February 24th 2009

Updated on: February 24th 2009