As Dean, I often find myself asked questions such as "What does the library of tomorrow look like?" or "How can libraries remain relevant in a digital landscape?" or "Do libraries actually matter in modern higher education?" 

My standard response? Come in and see for yourself. 

The Spring 2024 semester showed that we are not shy in embracing the future. Most notably, this March we hosted a Framing the Future event in the University Library. More than 200 students came to test drive the next generation of library technology, equipment, and furniture. Their feedback will help us as we continue to expand offerings and to enhance our space. 

There are many other areas which demonstrate our eye to the future. In January, we entered into transformative agreements with the Institute of Physics and the American Chemical Society, allowing researchers to access the latest scholarship while also increasing openness in the traditional publishing ecosystem. Our Anna Radkowski-Lee Graduate Assistant, Meghan Slaff, explored the bleeding edge of archiving and preserving digital records. We also welcomed the inaugural cohort of the University Libraries Intern Program. 

James H. Austin once said, "Chance favors those in motion." We may not yet know what chances the future will bring, but with your help, we will be ready and in motion when they arrive.