Hello everyone,
Yesterday we received word that Chancellor Cartwright approved the librarians’ and archivists’ official recognition as non-tenure track faculty members (NTT). I think this is very good news, and will help raise the profile of the librarians on campus. There are details to work out, and MULAC will be doing that, but the recognition is the first big step. Thanks to all who worked on this issue over the last few years.
Most of you have probably noticed that the steam pipe work on Lowry Mall is finally over. I’m sorry the bricks are back, as I had hoped we would get a surface less slippery when wet, but at least the construction fences are gone. Planting of pansies and other annual flowers will likely start soon, so I hope we’re done with snow!
Budget planning has not moved forward, which is a bit stressful, since we still have so much uncertainty. We should know more in a week or two. I don’t think I can say no news is good news. More information will come soon, and I know we are all worried it won’t be good.
The big Library Society donor event in Room 201 is on for Friday, April 27, as many of you know, starting at 4:30 pm. I’m sorry the room will be closed all that day and night and part of the next day. We also make a lot of noise just before finals. Our donors love using that room, though, and it really helps to gain their support, which we need now more than ever. This year we are partnered with the campus Legacy Society, which is for people who have planned estate gifts, as well as with David Crespy and the Theater Department, who are providing our speaker, Tony-award winning Broadway director Marshall Mason. The program is on the Lanford Wilson papers, which we have here, and his plays. (Tickets are $50; talk to Sheila Voss if interested).
Next weekend is the Unbound Book Festival at Stephens College, which is all free and offers many interesting author talks. We have Anselm chairing a session on authors’ use of archives. Matt and others will have a table with information on Friends of the Libraries and hope to recruit some new members.
Again, congratulations to librarians and archivists on NTT status, and best wishes for the next steps.
Ann