I’m writing to ensure that everyone is aware that Rich Rexroat, Assistant Director for Technical Services and Circulation at HSL, will retire at the end of November. Rich has worked for the Libraries since 1979, and he has made many positive contributions to the Health Sciences Library.

Ann and I have been talking about the staffing needs of the Health Sciences Library over time, and we have believed during all of this time that we have a desperate need for a research-focused librarian who can provide support for our research faculty and students. It is a tough call, when there are so many needs everywhere, but this gap in our staffing is glaring. Therefore, we will be seeking a public services librarian for the vacant position instead of a technical services librarian. The person in the new position, which we hope to post as a Research Support Librarian, will report to Diane Johnson.

Beginning in December, Amanda Sprochi will continue to work with Corrie Hutchinson to help cover cataloging needs across the library system. She will continue to work at the HSL, and report to me regarding the HSL collection. Terri Hall will once again report to me as she did for many years, since we already work closely on our most difficult issues. Diane Johnson will continue to take care of collection development, which she has done since Shelley Worden retired. Renita Richmond will continue to report to Amanda, assisting in technical services, with no substantive change in her duties.

Rich has asked that we not have a system-wide retirement event for him. He prefers a low-key approach to his big day. We are honoring his wishes, and I hope that you will send him a note or give him a call as you would like.

Deborah Ward