Assessment is the collection of data for the purpose of decision-making. Universities use assessment data for decision-making about resources, programs and services. Academic libraries commonly collect data about “numbers” of things — number of people who use facilities, check out materials, number of books and journals, etc. These numbers, though important, are not adequate to show how libraries influence university priorities. There is a need for measures that demonstrate with data the depth and complexity of our impact. These are not easy to develop: all academic libraries are trying to address this dilemma.

During a recent Learning Council meeting, one of the members had a great insight about the paradox of information literacy/learning assessment for libraries. This helps to explain why substantive assessment is such a challenge for libraries. The most effective information literacy/data literacy/archival literacy instruction occurs when it is well-integrated with course content — when people are learning to find, use, manage and communicate information as part of coursework. Because the information-related learning is integrated, it is very difficult to separate it from the rest of the course content. In other words, the more successful we are at integrating information/data/archival literacy into the curriculum, the more difficult assessing it becomes. This is a paradox that we can explain, but need to find ways to address.

As I look out the window the first snowflakes of winter are falling. Each year I anticipate these first snowflakes as a sign that the holiday season is truly upon us. Our spirit seems to move to our favorite tune, heard time and again, during the holiday season in nearly every store we enter. Therefore, I write to you to celebrate a season of renewal and giving to others. As I have become more and more ‘adult’, I realize that the magic of the season has somewhat diminished for me. Then I see a child standing in awe looking up at the beautiful tree in the Great Hall of the Purdue Memorial Union. I do hope what the child is seeing and feeling, is an understanding and appreciation of the need to think of others and to be grateful for the many gifts we have year-round, not just what comes at this particular time of the year. So, as we celebrate the season, and prepare to say good-bye to 2016, as we look with anticipation to what the next year will bring, I sincerely wish you the best possible year in 2017.

Once again Hicks Library was happy to host several study break events for students during Prep and Finals Weeks. Students expressed their appreciation for the variety of activities and they especially enjoyed the therapy dogs from Caring Paws.

Photos left to right:

• Students enjoy making ornaments during Fabulous Friday, sponsored by the Purdue LGBTQ Center.
• A group of students taking a quick break from studying to enjoy some fresh popcorn.
• A favorite Study Break event, students always enjoy visiting with the therapy dogs from Caring Paws.

The Purdue University Libraries celebrated 14 service anniversaries totaling 260 years, 10 retirements totaling 222 years and the addition of 24 new staff members at the Annual Staff Recognition reception on December 9. We also enjoyed handmade items and the artistic talents of a few of our coworkers.

2016 Libraries New Staff Members

Front Row: Mandi Gramelspacher, Wei Zakharov, Audrey Grisham, NuRee Lee, Adrianna Harmeyer, Melissa Waterworth, Joan Wang, Will Ferrall
Second Row; Jim Mullins, Lisa Carter, Nanette Andersson, Sandi Caldrone, Ethan Shepherd
Back Row: Michael Lewis, Nina Collins, Jacinda Laymon, Bertin Mbongo, Shirley Li, Heather Howard, Jason Reed, Sarah Huber
Not Pictured: M Cadwallader, Rachel Fundator, Erla Heyns, Jenny Jackson

Sarah Huber
Engineering Technology Information Specialist
PSET

I am absolutely thrilled to be joining Purdue’s library team. I bring with me an array of experiences that led to a career in librarianship.

Always a reader, I received my BA in English from the University of Minnesota. I am currently reading Mary Oliver’s West Wind: Poems and Prose Poems. During my undergraduate work, I developed an interest in textiles and took a brief detour into clothing design, which I studied at the University of Minnesota; I also apprenticed with a local clothing designer. Later taking an interest in digital art, I got an associate’s degree in audio-video, digital media. My work as a video editor ran the gamut of artistic to sport and how-to. My most memorable and meaningful experience was videotaping and editing the story of a friend’s family experience in a Japanese internment camp during WWII. But I honed my video editing chops through anything from monster truck to Model Railroader videos.

I started work in Dunwoody College of Technology’s library in 2007. First being hired to work with video and media, I discovered how much I enjoyed all things library! In the Library, I could use my English major detective skills to locate information. I assisted students with their writing, taught and even built. Working at a technical college offered the opportunity to collaborate with construction, architecture, interior design and engineering instructors in their labs. I was able to embed information literacy instruction through a variety of hands-on, creative projects. Good design was a thread that ran through all of the programs, and all students needed to do research to actualize their ideas. I had an understanding of design through my own interests that I believe helped me with student work. In my new role working with the PPI technology programs, I am excited to learn from my peers, grow, be challenged and contribute to the field of librarianship.

My office is located in the Engineering Library, POTR 158 and I can be reached at huber47@purdue.edu or 49-49993.

Stephan Miller’s name was randomly drawn from all those who were SMILED upon in November. He received a $25 Von’s Book Shop gift certificate.

All faculty, administration and staff are invited to send a note of appreciation for a kindness or thoughtfulness given, assistance provided to or by a Libraries, Press or Copyright Office colleague.

To learn more about how to participate in our SMILE Program, please visit and bookmark this page on the Libraries intranet: http://intranet.lib.purdue.edu/display/HR/SMILE+Program/

Wishing you a joyful Holiday Season