Purdue University Libraries

THE LIBRARIES VISION

In the twenty-first century, the Purdue University Libraries provide optimum access to and delivery of information to the Purdue University community, regardless of location, by utilizing sophisticated technologies, rather than serving as a major local repository. Expert staff instruct and assist the members of the Purdue community in becoming proficient and productive users of information.

The Purdue University Libraries are partners in the teaching, research, and outreach missions of the University. The Libraries' primary role in this partnership is to develop self-directed learning skills in undergraduate students. A strong instruction program, closely coordinated with classroom faculty, is provided for all students, with emphasis on critical thinking, information literacy, and lifelong learning skills for undergraduates.

Sophisticated, discipline-oriented information services enhance individual and group learning, faculty productivity, and the outreach programs of the University. With the help of a variety of appropriate technologies, the Libraries provide access to information from local, regional, national, and international services. Some of these are maintained and operated on campus for the benefit of local users while others, although located remotely, are also accessed with ease. Once needed information has been identified, it is delivered rapidly and is available in a variety of formats.

Electronic and other forms of access, document delivery services, and Purdue's own collections are carefully managed in response to an ongoing needs assessment. The user's ability to access information, regardless of location, and the outcomes of the use of the information, together constitute the measure of the Libraries' success. This measure relies in part on, but is increasingly less defined by, the local collection. The Libraries' success is evaluated in light of the requirements of scholars and students in disciplines as diverse as the sciences, engineering and technology, humanities, and the social sciences.

The Libraries' information consultants work closely with individuals and groups to understand the context of their information needs, and to develop programs, systems, and technological applications to help them retrieve, manage, use, and communicate information more efficiently and effectively. The staff expertise, services, and collections extend beyond the West Lafayette campus through programs designed to provide rapid access to information for individuals, not-for-profit agencies, governmental units, and businesses, both within and outside the state of Indiana.

The programs and services of the Libraries are carried out by a diverse group of faculty and administrative, professional, and support staff. The "library family" is characterized by high morale, a strong sense of common purpose, and social responsibility. Staff from all employee classifications work together in flexible teams to analyze issues and opportunities, recommend actions, and participate in implementation.

Effective communication throughout the Libraries and an active staff development program contribute to a positive organizational climate and the successful achievement of the Libraries' mission. Library faculty and staff maintain excellent communication with the Libraries' partners in the University.