LIBRARIAN | DIGITAL & INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST
Robert Cope MSc BSc(Hons) BA
Central London
London EC1 Contact Form
PROFILE
Experienced library professional with a proven track record in managing specialist civil engineering collections, thriving in structured, focused settings. Skilled in cataloguing, digitisation, and user support, with strong interpersonal abilities to engage diverse stakeholders. A diligent and ambitious professional passionate about advancing engineering knowledge through high-quality library services, supported by strong technical expertise and attention to detail.
SKILLS
Information & Records Management – Cataloguing (Soutron LMS, Talis LMS, UDC, Dewey), Digitisation
Library & Research Services – Archival research, Collection Development, Reference support
IT & Digital Solutions – Linux (RHEL 8), Apache, NGINX, MySQL, HTML/CSS, PHP
Web Development & Hosting – WordPress, WooCommerce, cPanel, DirectAdmin, SSL security
Project & Time Management – Organising workflows, Risk mitigation, Process optimisation
Technical Support & Training – User support, IT troubleshooting, Digital literacy coaching
Strong Written & Verbal Communication – Reports, stakeholder engagement, customer service
Integrity, Diligence & Professionalism – Ethical handling of sensitive information
EMPLOYMENT
Library Assistant – The Institution of Civil Engineering (ICE)
May 2023 – to-date
Pioneering steward of the UK’s largest civil engineering libraries, managing a globally recognised collection spanning over 200 years and serving 97,000 members worldwide.
Catalogue and index over 150 diverse acquisitions monthly, including new books, historical donations, periodicals, reports, and other materials, enhancing discoverability via the Soutron LMS using Universal Decimal Classification (UDC).
Maintain and optimise a 24/7 accessible electronic catalogue within the Soutron LMS, improving user retrieval efficiency by 20% through targeted digital enhancements.
Resolve 50+ weekly user enquiries, delivering tailored research support to engineers, academics, and members, ensuring timely and accurate responses.
Lead digitisation initiatives, scanning and uploading 300+ historical documents to the Soutron LMS, preserving legacy content for online access.
Optimised shelving workflows, cutting retrieval times by 15% and improving access to specialist materials.
Owner – Capital Designs
Mar 2019 – May 2023
Founded and operated Capital Designs, an independent e-commerce development consultancy serving manufacturers and merchants.
Designed and built bespoke online stores, leveraging WordPress, WooCommerce, and custom integrations to enhance client sales and visibility.
Provided full-service hosting solutions, managing domains, SSL security, and business email integration for uninterrupted client operations.
Led projects from concept to completion, ensuring technical precision, seamless functionality, and client satisfaction.
Learning & Information Officer – Islington Borough Council
Feb 2017 – Feb 2019
Managed library-based IT support, delivering one-on-one sessions to assist users with CV writing, online applications, and general digital skills.
Led cataloguing and stock maintenance, removing obsolete materials and coordinating book resale initiatives to generate revenue.
Provided frontline library services, handling user inquiries, memberships, and digital resource support.
Owner – Tech Handy
Apr 2012 – Feb 2017
Provided on-site IT support and troubleshooting services for small businesses and individuals, ensuring minimal downtime.
Delivered tailored IT solutions, including system repairs, software installations, and network security enhancements.
Managed website hosting and email services, ensuring secure and efficient digital operations for clients.
Library Learning Resource & Information Officer – Camden Libraries
Dec 2002 – Jul 2011
Delivered UK Online computer training across multiple libraries and community centres in Camden, promoting digital literacy and inclusion.
Provided one-to-one IT support, assisting users with job applications, CV writing, and online services.
Managed cataloguing and collection maintenance, ensuring efficient stock rotation and retrieval of archived materials.
EDUCATION
The Open University
Currently studying – MBA – Master of Business Administration (Expected Jun 2025)
2013 – MSc in Advanced Networking
2011 – Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Networking
2009 – BSc (Hons) in Information Technology and Computing
2007 – BA – Bachelor of Arts Open
2006 – Diploma in Computing
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATES
The Open University
2013 – Cisco CCNP
2011 – Cisco CCNA
VOLUNTEERING
Web Design & Hosting Admin – Clerkenwell Green Preservation Society
Mar 2020 – to-date
Design, develop, and maintain the society’s website and back-end member portal.
Manage member registration and user access, ensuring a seamless onboarding process.
Oversee hosting and security to ensure uninterrupted digital operations.
Coordinate and distribute newsletters via Mailchimp, keeping members informed and engaged.
Liaise with police, local councils, and third-party stakeholders to support community initiatives.
Club Secretary & Web Design – Clerkenwell Close Tenants Association
Jul 2005 – to-date
Design, develop, and manage the association’s website, ensuring accessibility and security.
Provide hosting and technical support for community digital services.
Act as a liaison between tenants, local authorities, and external partners to facilitate communication and engagement.
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