Purdue University Libraries

Strategic Plan 2002-2006

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. Expert faculty and staff instruct and assist the members of the Purdue community in becoming proficient and productive users of information.

 

As partners in the discovery, learning, and engagement missions of the University, the Purdue University Libraries provide sophisticated, user-centered information services to facilitate faculty and student productivity, enhance individual and group learning, and enrich engagement initiatives. The Libraries provide access to and rapid delivery of information in a variety of formats from local, regional, national, and international services.

 

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.

 

A strong instruction program, closely coordinated with other faculty, is provided for all students, with emphasis on critical thinking, information literacy, and lifelong learning skills for undergraduates. 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 faculty and 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. Faculty and 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.