Sarah Barbara Watstein

University Librarian’s Welcome

June 21, 2010
 
The William Randall Library at UNCW is, like most college and research libraries in the United States today, in transition - - both as an institution and as a building type. Changes in learning patterns, collections, technology and use are but four of the factors that challenge academic libraries nationwide.

The Randall Library mission, vision, core values and goals begin to tell the story of who we are. There is more. Randall Library is also defined by responsive services, collections in all formats, and quality spaces, both physical and virtual. Students will find a staff committed not only to service but to fostering a learning culture - - producing learning with every student by whatever means work best. Front-and-center to our mission, vision and core values is providing timely access to information that supports the University’s high-quality programs at the baccalaureate and master’s levels, and in its doctoral programs in marine biology and educational leadership. At Randall Library students will find a coordinated and extended set of study and workspaces offering an array of options ranging from traditional individual study to a new information commons area integrating technical resources, information sources, and staff support. Students will soon experience our redesigned Web spaces, further evidence of our mission, vision and core values in action.

Randall Library is truly unique on campus as a communal place for study and research. As the 2010/11 academic year approaches, Randall Library staff will be working on a new strategic plan and updating our goals accordingly. A careful, iterative process of consultation will be followed. Opportunities for collaboration with campus partners abound. We look forward to your input as we conceptualize the nature and future of Randall Library, as we rethink our roles, services, collections and spaces. Our users deserve nothing less than transcendent services and spaces.

Sarah Barbara Watstein
watsteins [at] uncw [dot] edu

910.962.3721 (office)
910.962.3078 (fax)