The Changing Terrain of Academic Libraries: Responding to Evolving Needs of Students and Faculty

Abstract

As needs of faculty and students are evolving, the University of Maryland Libraries responds by changing many of the library priorities. We completely revamped our reference services, moving away from a traditional reference desk to a multidimensional mixed-model delivery of information needs, which allows us more flexibility and agility. In response to campus priorities, the STEM branches are being consolidated to provide more robust, experimental and multifaceted services which promote innovation and team learning. We changed our instructional practices, centering on curricular development and evidence-based learning. We developed Research Commons. The role of subject librarians has been redefined, along with CORE competencies, annual reviews, and training needs for subject librarians. These changes have benefited our users and our librarians. We have seen an increased participation in collaborative work among our librarians and campus units, and deeper embedment with departments. This presentation will cover the changes described above.