September 3, 2026 This summer we welcomed the largest incoming class in UAlbany history! The University Libraries are here to support them. When the calendar flipped from July to August, excitement began to build on campus. You couldn't miss it either, as more than 3,500 new first-year students arrived to begin their college careers. Here at the University Libraries, we have been hard at work preparing for the historic Class of 2030. Dean of University Libraries Carey Hatch As you know, today's academic library is far more than a quiet place to study. The University Libraries serve as a cornerstone of the academic enterprise, providing access to the collections, resources, tools, and services that support learning, discovery, and research. Through your generosity, you are helping the Class of 2030 succeed in the classroom, demonstrate their learning, engage in original scholarship, and create new knowledge. Your support ensures that UAlbany students have the resources they need to explore ideas, solve problems, and become the next generation of researchers, professionals, and leaders. I thank you again for your generosity and support. Our Summer 2026 Newsletter Features Highlights from Welcome Week 2026An interview with Clancey Staldine, a non-traditional student and library leaderA discussion of ethical artificial intelligence (AI) usage and the role libraries play in navigating new technologies. Dean's Message: Summer 2026 Dean's Message: Summer 2026