Betty G. Bengtson, Director of University Libraries
The UW Libraries created its first strategic plan in 1991. Initiatives launched under that first plan resulted in the progress we have made in building an electronic library, providing new services, improving facilities, and strengthening staff skills.
In 1994, the Libraries Executive Committee and managers from throughout the Libraries met to reconfirm the vision and mission of the UW Libraries and to discuss critical issues which confront the Libraries. Issues identified included constrained budgets, increasingly expensive library materials, increased demands for library services, the need for a competitive salary structure for librarians, the growth of the electronic library, the replacement of computing equipment, and necessary changes in Libraries organizational structure to reflect new operating relationships and service requirements. The Libraries Strategic Plan for 1995-99 was finalized in March of this year and reviewed with the Faculty Council on University Libraries this spring.
The 1995-99 plan sets five goals for the Libraries: enhancing services to library users; expanding access, retrieval and delivery of information resources; strengthening human resources within the Libraries; providing an effective organizational structure; and improving facilities for users, staff and collections. Permeating the plan is a focus on the library user, on the use of technology to meet user needs, and on collaboration and partnerships with other university groups to achieve library goals. The articles in this issue of Library Directions illustrate how the Libraries is talking with its users and using technology to meet user needs and expectations. Please watch future issues of Library Directions for reports of our progress toward providing the finest library and library services to the university community.
University of Washington Libraries Vision Statement
We envision a user-centered library in which quality services and user satisfaction are goals recognized and shared by all staff.
We are committed to relevant and individualized service; enhancing lifelong learning, stimulating critical thinking, and promoting innovative research and teaching.
We envision the University Libraries to be a leader in information management and in the creative use of new technologies.
The University Libraries will remain an open and inviting place, recognized for providing and protecting an intellectually rich environment.