SPEECH BY THE NEW UNIVERSITY LIBRARIAN (DR. RICHARD BRUCE LAMPTEY), KNUST*
*At the First Meeting with Library Staff*
Good morning, distinguished colleagues,
It is with deep humility and great enthusiasm that I stand before you today as the new University Librarian of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. I am truly honoured to join this community of dedicated professionals who have worked tirelessly to uphold the reputation and excellence of our University Library — one of the finest in the nation and indeed on the African continent.
First and foremost, I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to my predecessor and to all of you, the hardworking staff, for your unwavering commitment to service, scholarship, and innovation. The successes the KNUST Library has achieved over the years are a testament to your collective effort, creativity, and resilience.
As we begin this new chapter together, I see our library not just as a storehouse of knowledge, but as a dynamic centre for learning, research, and collaboration — a place where technology meets tradition, and where ideas can flourish freely. Our mission remains clear: to support teaching, learning, and research by providing timely access to relevant information resources and services.
However, the landscape of librarianship is changing rapidly. The digital age presents both challenges and exciting opportunities. We must therefore continue to innovate — embracing digital transformation, strengthening our information literacy programmes, expanding access to electronic resources, and ensuring that our spaces remain vibrant, inclusive, and user-centred.
I believe strongly in teamwork and open communication. Each one of you — from the senior librarian to the newest assistant — plays an integral role in the success of this institution. Your insights, creativity, and passion will guide our collective journey forward. My leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect. I encourage us all to share ideas, ask questions, and work together as one strong KNUST Library family.
In the coming weeks, I will be meeting with various sections and units to learn more about your work, challenges, and aspirations. Together, we will develop a shared vision and a strategic plan that aligns with the broader goals of the university — a plan that will position KNUST Library as a model of excellence in academic librarianship across Africa.
Let us approach this journey with renewed energy, a spirit of innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The future of the KNUST Library is bright — and together, we will make it even brighter.
Thank you, and I look forward to working closely with each of you.
*Ayekoo, and may we continue to uphold the proud tradition of KNUST — *“Nyansapo wosane no badwen ba” — “The knot of wisdom is untied by the wise.”