University Libraries Strategic Plan 2007-2009

Mission | Vision | Values | Strategic Directions | Strategic Plan Document (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Mission

The mission of University Libraries is to provide excellent research collections, quality service, engaging learning
environments, and innovative instruction in support of the University of Cincinnati’s comprehensive mission of teaching,
research, and community service.

Vision

University Libraries will be a creative and dynamic organization that is recognized as a model provider of access to premier
library collections and quality service. The Libraries will be the information and research gateway of first choice for the University of Cincinnati community. The faculty and staff of University Libraries will achieve the highest level of professionalism and expertise in pursuit of their mission.

Values

We, the faculty and staff of are committed to the following values in our daily work and delivery of library resources and services to the University of Cincinnati community and beyond.

Quality Service

• by anticipating and meeting the information needs of library users
• by exercising responsible initiative to ensure quality service on a daily basis
• by honoring internal and external commitments to each other and library users

Respect

• by recognizing the contributions of all staff and treating library users and each other with respect
• by appreciating the diversity of our community

Communication and Collaboration

• by providing a collegial atmosphere of teamwork where open communication, honesty, innovation,and critical thought are encouraged and supported
• by promoting cooperation across library departments and units
• by pursuing beneficial partnerships throughout the University and community at large
• by ensuring regular and consistent exchange of information within and beyond the libraries

Accountability and Ethics

• by setting and achieving high standards of work performance and consistently adhering to library and University policies
• by exemplifying the principles of the American Library Association’s Code of Ethics in our daily work and interactions with library users
• by complying with all state, national, and international laws that govern patron records, copyright, and licensing of information
  

Strategic Directions

Academic & Research Excellence

1. Align collection development policies and budget with UC|21 academic priorities and ongoing changes in scholarly publishing.
2. Implement an interactive metasearch engine that will transform user access to library
   collections and resources.
3. Create a long-term plan to address the preservation and conservation needs of print collections.
4. Develop UC’s institutional repository as a component of the OhioLINK Digital
   Resource Commons (DRC) initiative.
5. Digitize selected unique and rare collections to make them widely accessible on the Web.

Place Students at the Center

1. Participate in the UC|21 Integrated Core Learning initiative by developing a library instruction program for first-year students, mid-collegiate composition courses, and capstone courses.
2. Enhance access to library services and instruction by providing a variety of delivery technologies (podcasting, text messaging, etc.).
3. Promote academic integrity by participating in campus initiatives that educate students about the appropriate use and attribution of research sources.
4. Assess and upgrade Langsam Library classrooms as needed to create flexible environments that promote active learning.

Library as Place

1. Develop a plan and timetable to renovate Langsam Library and Blegen Library to accommodate collection growth, update user spaces, and replace 25 year-plus mechanical systems and building infrastructure.
2. Expand wireless connectivity throughout all libraries.
3. Develop a 24/7 computer and quiet study space on the 5th level of Langsam Library.
4. Explore the need for additional quiet study areas in Langsam Library.
   

Organizational Effectiveness

1. Improve collection access for library users by:

• Addressing the “lost/missing/long overdue” issue.
• Identifying and assessing uncataloged materials in order to determine cataloging priorities and optimal allocation of
  cataloging resources.
• Developing a collaborative shelf-reading program across University Libraries.

2. Create a comprehensive marketing plan that increases awareness of library collections and services and integrates marketing into the development and delivery of new library services and resources.
3. Support staff productivity and efficiency by:

• Increasing skill-sets and expertise through training and development.
• Introducing technological solutions and innovative practices in the delivery of core and specialty services.
• Expanding upon cross-departmental and cross-jurisdictional collaborative processes that increase efficiency and
  encourage teamwork.

4. Revamp or discontinue services, programs, and projects that no longer meet primary needs of users or are central to the mission of University Libraries.

2003-2005 University Libraries Strategic Plan and planning documents are available online.