Observations and Reflections

Thank you!  As 2012 comes to a close, it is a good time to reflect on what UK Libraries has been able to accomplish throughout the past year.  In the midst of some challenging budgetary times, we welcomed and served the largest incoming class of students in the history of the University of Kentucky.  We have integrated undergraduate students into the processing and study of our unique Special Collections through the creation of the SC Learning Lab.  In addition, we continue to adapt and expand our collections to meet the needs of a rapidly changing academic environment.  UK Libraries faculty, staff, and student employees have worked very hard to make all of this possible.

I also want to acknowledge the support of faculty and administrators across UK’s campus for their support for UK Libraries during the past year.  That support, along with support from President Eli Capilouto, Interim Provost Tim Tracy, and members of the UK Board of Trustees have been essential in keeping UK Libraries one of the leading public research libraries in the United States.

What is most exciting and encouraging to me is what we have been able to accomplish with the support of our friends and donors.  By this time next year, I anticipate we will be dedicating our newest learning commons on the second floor of the William T. Young Library.  We are in the process of replacing aging and inadequate furniture and equipment in Special Collections and the Medical Library with new infrastructure that will enhance research and learning.  None of this would have been possible without generous private support.

I am extremely grateful for the generosity of our donors and the work and support of the UK Libraries National Advisory Board.  I am anxious to explore new ways we will be able to serve our mission and impact the lives of current and future UK students. 

If you have not already done so, I encourage you to make a calendar year end annual gift to UK Libraries.  You can make a secure gift online via credit card by visiting our giving website http://libraries.uky.edu/Giving.  You may also contact Greg Casey, UK Libraries Director of Development, (greg.casey@uky.edu or 859.218.0707) and he will be happy to assist you.