Library Mission

Library Mission Statement

The purpose of the Cowan - Blakley Memorial Library is to contribute to the fulfillment of the University's mission by pursuing the following objectives:

• To select, acquire, organize, maintain and make accessible a collection of printed and non-printed, primary and secondary materials which will support the educational, research, and public service programs of the undergraduate and graduate schools of the University.
• To respond to the varying needs of the academic community by involving faculty, students, and administration in the development and periodic assessment of library services and resources.
• To provide essential services to University students, faculty, and staff to enhance research and promote learning.
• To provide an orientation program to teach new users how to obtain individual assistance, access bibliographic information, and locate materials.
• To provide library users with point-of-use instruction, personal assistance in conducting library research, and other reference services.
• To provide an environment conducive to the optimum use of library materials and an appropriate schedule of hours of service and professional assistance.
• To participate in any overall University-wide computing resources plan, and to provide for full library utilization of automation technology and for physical facilities and equipment adequate to process, catalog, and store the materials.
• To implement a policy for the recruitment, retention, and development of qualified service-oriented librarians, and of support staff.
• To enhance the library's resources and services through cooperative relationships with other libraries and agencies.