The Future of University Libraries: 2012 Midwinter Report

Prepared by the Committee on the Future of University Libraries. Full-text copies available on ALAConnect or ULS Blog.

Committee Members: Miranda Henry Bennett, Theresa S. Byrd, Christopher Cox, Michelle Dunaway, Rafia Mirza, Chair: Marilyn Myers, Laura K. Probst.

Abstract: The ACRL/ULS Committee on the Future of University Libraries is charged with exploring and documenting emerging issues, trends, and services in university libraries, and identifying and articulating means through which ULS can support university librarians in the future. In support of this mission, the Committee on the Future of University Libraries initiated a review of recent literature relating to university libraries in order to identify publications and resources that support university librarians in their efforts to plan and prepare for changes in university libraries and higher education broadly. This report outlines the themes that emerged from publications between June 2011 and January 2012, and discusses identified issues and trends centering around three principal elements of university libraries’ futures: missions, money, and people. This report aims to provide university librarians with an appreciation and understanding of current and future leadership and management challenges, and to encourage university librarians to engage in forward-looking discussions of how to best contribute to the effectiveness of universities and university libraries.