Cass Kvenild, Dean of Libraries
As we approach the end of the 2023-24 academic year, I find myself filled with gratitude.
Despite parking lot closures and the allure of the new Chick-fil-A in the Wyoming
Union, Coe Library remains a bustling hub of activity. It inspires me daily to see
our study rooms filled with students collaborating on projects, the halls adorned
with student photography, and our whiteboards covered with complex equations that
challenge my comprehension.
I am thrilled to share that the Wyoming Legislature approved $500,000 in annual recurring
funds for UW Libraries collections during their 2024 budget session. This generous
increase in funding ensures continued access to essential research resources, like
databases, journal packages, and e-books. It also provides us with some breathing
room to acquire collections that align with new UW degree programs and to address
rising costs.
This additional funding comes at a crucial time, as inflation and budgetary constraints
have presented challenges in renewing journal subscriptions. With the support of the
UW Faculty Senate and our diligent negotiation efforts through the Colorado Alliance of Research Libraries,
we successfully reduced costs for our highest priced subscription database by 30%
for the next 4 years. Those savings will translate into ongoing access for other key
journals and research materials.
I am deeply grateful to all who support UW Libraries financially. Your contributions
allow us to enrich our collections, meeting the needs of every student and faculty
member. Furthermore, I extend my appreciation to those who have made in-kind donations,
such as the stunning gift of The Grasses of the Apache Highlands to our Special Collections this spring.
I am proud to work with all our faculty and staff, and several of them were recognized
for their outstanding contributions this recently:
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Samantha Peter, Chair of Research & Instruction, received recognition for her exemplary
work by the Library Instruction Round Table of the American Library Association.
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Jessica Rardin, Learning & Engagement Librarian, was honored with the Beginning Professional
Award from the Mountain Plains Library Association.
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Tandi Valdez, who has served UW Libraries for an impressive 37 years, was awarded
the 2024 Outstanding Staff Award for her invaluable contributions to interlibrary
loan services.
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Jennifer Kirk, our Marketing & Communications Specialist, received a Wyoming Press
Award for her outstanding work on the impactful "You Belong Here" marketing campaign.
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David Kruger, Agriculture and Business Librarian, was inducted into the J.C. Penney
HCSC Alumni club for his work in preserving and sharing the history and heritage of James Cash Penney and the J.C. Penney Company.
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Janice Grover, Carol J. McMurry Distinguished Librarian for Academic Excellence, received
a 2024 Promoting Intellectual Engagement (PIE) award for her work in engaging students
meaningfully in course material, promoting successful transition to college expectations,
and fostering investment in learning.
Lastly, as an avid library user and lifelong reader, I am grateful for the accessibility
of electronic books through the Libby app. It brings me joy to know that UW Libraries shares our e-books, audiobooks, and magazines
with residents across Wyoming. Last year alone, over 3,000 UW Libraries-owned items
were accessed by individuals from public libraries, community colleges, the WYLD network,
and several school districts statewide. We take pride in making our collections available
to all members of our community.
As we reflect on the accomplishments and challenges of the past year, let us carry
forward the spirit of gratitude and continue working together.
See you in the stacks,
Cass Kvenild
Dean of Libraries
