Library Philosophy

I view libraries are vibrant ecosystems that foster learning, research, creativity, and community engagement. They are dynamic organizations that help people ideas grow and form connections.

 The Four Pillars

Teaching: Empowering Learning

Libraries as Catalysts for Learning
Teaching and learning are at the core of any library's mission. Libraries should be active partners in the educational process, providing not only access to information but also the tools and support needed for critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. We focus on creating inclusive, flexible learning environments that meet the needs of diverse learners and foster long-term intellectual growth.

  • Expanded literacy programs: Preparing students to navigate an information-rich world with confidence through comprehensive literacy programs, including information literacy, AI literacy, media literacy, and digital literacy.

  • Collaborative classrooms and studios: Designing flexible learning environments—from collaborative classrooms to digital studios—that inspire creativity, group learning, and innovation.

  • Experiential and hands-on learning: Supporting experiential learning by offering hands-on educational tools, interactive resources, and spaces where students can apply knowledge in real-world contexts.

  • Open educational resources (OERs): Advocating for the use of OERs to expand access to high-quality, cost-effective learning materials that empower both educators and students.

  • Interdisciplinary thinking and problem-solving: Bringing together diverse content, data, and perspectives across disciplines, helping students and educators think critically about complex issues and expand teaching possibilities.

Research: Fueling Discovery

Libraries as Integrators for Ideas and Discovery
The library’s role in research is dynamic, evolving with the shifting needs of scholars and scientists as they explore complex questions and address global challenges. In addition to providing access to vital collections and resources, libraries serve as connectors for expert support, offering tools, platforms, and collaborative spaces. By facilitating everything from research impact assessment to data management and publishing strategies, libraries empower researchers to deepen their inquiries, enhance the quality of their work, and extend the reach of their discoveries through open, accessible channels.

  • Data management and preservation: Libraries support researchers by providing robust data management services and ensuring long-term preservation of research outputs, safeguarding the integrity and accessibility of data for future use.

  • Scholarly communication and open science: Libraries play a key role in helping scholars navigate the publishing landscape, promoting public access, supporting open science initiatives, and maximizing the visibility of research.

  • Interdisciplinary collaboration and teams: Libraries foster collaboration across disciplines, creating opportunities for scholars from different fields to connect, share knowledge, and work in interdisciplinary research teams that address complex issues.

  • Research metrics, assessment, and competitiveness: Libraries assist in evaluating research impact and metrics, helping researchers and institutions measure the effectiveness of their work and remain competitive in global research arenas.

  • Knowledge management, idea development, and workflows: Libraries streamline research processes by providing tools and strategies for efficient knowledge management, idea development, and logistical workflows, ensuring that researchers can focus more on discovery and less on administrative burdens.

Innovation: Turning Ideas into Action

Libraries as Engines of Creativity
Innovation isn’t just about adopting new technologies; it’s about cultivating a culture of creativity and exploration. Libraries are spaces where people are empowered to learn new skills, test ideas, collaborate on projects, and develop creative solutions. By offering environments that embody curiosity and promote innovation as a social experience, libraries encourage individuals and teams to experiment, take risks, and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

  • Makerspaces, studios, and labs: Libraries offer spaces where students, researchers, and creators can engage in hands-on, collaborative projects, bringing ideas to life in a supportive environment.

  • Technology integration: By incorporating diverse tools such as data visualization, 3D printing, virtual/augmented reality, IoT, and AI, libraries provide an entry point for emerging technologies.

  • Encouraging practice: Through workshops, competitions, challenges, and showcases, libraries inspire experimentation and out-of-the-box thinking, helping people take their ideas from concept to implementation and put them into practice.

  • Support for learning and personal growth: Innovation in libraries is not just about the technology—it’s about fostering personal growth and learning. Knowledgeable staff are there to guide users through new tools and creative practices, making the journey as valuable as the outcome.

  • Intellectual property and entrepreneurship: Libraries play a crucial role in supporting intellectual property (IP) management, licensing, and entrepreneurship. They assist in navigating copyright issues, forming startups, and translating research into practice. Libraries help faculty, students, and staff strengthen their innovations while also supporting the broader campus in IP matters, knowledge transfer, and commercialization efforts.

Community Engagement – Bridging Academia and Society

Libraries as Anchors for Civic and Cultural Life
Libraries extend their influence beyond the campus, offering programs and services that foster public engagement, preserve cultural heritage, and promote lifelong learning. Through partnerships with local organizations, libraries connect academic knowledge to the interests and needs of the broader community, providing valuable resources and fostering collaborative learning experiences.

  • Cultural heritage and preservation: Libraries serve as custodians of institutional and community histories, preserving materials that ensure cultural heritage remains accessible for future generations.

  • Civic engagement and education: Libraries promote active citizenship and democratic participation through programs that foster informed engagement, while also offering literacy and skill-building initiatives that support lifelong learning and personal growth.

  • Partnerships with non-profits and cultural institutions: Libraries collaborate with museums, galleries, and community organizations to create educational and cultural programs, enhancing public access to knowledge and shared cultural experiences.

  • Engaging through action: Libraries foster community involvement through citizen science, volunteer opportunities, and service projects, empowering individuals to contribute to meaningful research and local initiatives.

  • Convening events and fostering intellectual growth: Libraries serve as hubs for public discourse, hosting exhibitions, lectures, and programs that enrich the intellectual and cultural life of the community, creating spaces for shared learning and dialogue.