From the Dean

Dean of University Libraries
Among the first donations to a newly-founded Miami University were hundreds of valuable books, forming the beginning of Miami’s library.
They were accepted eagerly: books, especially academic volumes, were hard to come by and didn’t come cheap.
That initial collection of books gave the first Miamians the resources they needed to learn, discover, and grow. Any student who entered the library — no matter their family background, field of study, or financial resources — could access this collection of knowledge. The library leveled the playing field.
Our library system may have changed immeasurably over Miami’s more than 200-year history, but our fundamental purpose has not.
The resource needs of today look different: our scholars require vast datasets and laser-focused journals, 15th-century manuscripts and subscriptions to online newspapers. Their scholarship demands textbooks, augmented-reality anatomy apps, graphic novels, university records, and engineering reference databases. The tools for scholarship — and to acquire the skills and literacies demanded by a modern world — include collaborative spaces, digitized archives, advanced computer software, virtual reality headsets, and 3D printers. And so we provide them, and we provide them to all.
Now, more than ever, the Libraries are an equalizer.
As the current caretakers of this centuries-old enterprise, the responsibility to ensure the continued strength and relevancy of our university library system rests on our shoulders. The actions we take now — how we define our priorities and shape our services — must strive toward that goal in a way that rings true to our mission and values. This strategic plan will serve as our roadmap.
The story of the Libraries is one written by innovators and visionaries, and by thoughtful caretakers with the wisdom of history. I’m honored to share the pen with you as we write the next chapter.
Our Foundation
Mission
We proactively connect our community with the resources and personalized guidance to empower discovery, creation, and success.
Vision
We will be the catalyst for growth and discovery for every scholar in our community.
Values
You matter; you belong
We:
- are approachable and friendly
- create inviting and accessible environments
- design inclusive systems
- show empathy and actively listen
Always wonder; always learn
We:
- question our own assumptions
- listen to understand
- empower inquiry and discovery
- cultivate an atmosphere of wonder
Find connections; forge partnerships
We:
- focus on results and embrace the expertise and assistance of others
- seek knowledge even if it challenges our biases
- mediate among disciplines
- create space for others to share their perspectives
Boldly create; fearlessly innovate
We:
- encourage creative solutions
- adapt to new realities
- take smart risks and learn from every failure
- create new opportunities
Strategic plan for the 20-21 academic year
Goals
Develop talent, resources, and experiences to facilitate an inclusive community.
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Sponsors
- Alea Henle
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Facilitators
- Donna Richardson
- Rachel Makarowski
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Sponsors
- Lindsay Miller
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Facilitators
- Jody Perkins
- Kim Hoffman
Transform the Libraries’ environment and user-centered experience to anticipate evolving modes of learning and the actual resource needs of our community.
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Sponsors
- Elias Tzoc
- Stan Brown
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Facilitators
- Ken Irwin
- Alia Levar Wegner
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Sponsors
- Kevin Messner
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Facilitators
- Nick Kneer
- Nate Floyd
Forge meaningful partnerships that foster affordability, ensure relevancy, and cultivate life-long connections.
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Sponsors
- Bill Modrow
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Facilitators
- Carla Myers
- Katie Gibson