Colleagues,

The recent announcements regarding the state budget shortfall and Denise Stephen’s memo have undoubtedly raised questions from staff throughout the Libraries. While much information is yet to be determined, I can assure you that we are committed to supporting our primary operational mission and core programs to advance research, teaching and learning on campus. Rest assured that despite budgetary adversities, we will continue basic operations while pursuing new strategic initiatives. I am also pleased to report that the recent merit increases are secure.

We are fortunate to approach this challenge from a very positive position. We have, for the most part, solid staffing resources in all units, creating a very stable environment for continued quality in service delivery. Additionally, we have a commitment from the Vice Provost’s office to protect existing funding for our collections.  We believe that with careful financial planning and continued efforts to build new campus partnerships and strengthen existing ones, we can still move forward.

Your fiscal year 2009 library budget requests will be reviewed with the new budget directives in mind. In the meantime, we are aggressively pursuing other avenues for income, including expanded private support. We will also continue to explore grant opportunities.  As always, we must be responsible stewards of the Libraries’ budget, constantly evaluating the most prudent use of funds.

We know there will be questions about the Libraries’ role in the assessment process identified by the Provost. I am committed to providing you with regular, transparent communication and input opportunities.

I am confident that we are well equipped to handle this challenge. Thank you all for your continuing hard work and dedication to KU Libraries.

I encourage you to attend the Concept Review scheduled this morning, Thursday, July 10, 10:30-noon in the Computer Center Auditorium to hear more about the IS Budget Reallocation.

Lorraine
7/10/08

Employee of the Year

All,
I am delighted to announce that Nishon Hawkins is the 2008 USS Employee
of the Year!
Nishon, was selected unanimously by the SSEYA selection committee for
her outstanding performance in 2007. In particular, the committee noted
“her extra effort and patience in implementing changes to the e-reserves
guidelines brought on by new copyright restrictions, and in helping
faculty adjust to the changes. Working “behind the scenes” Nishon put
forth extra effort to implement the necessary changes, which, of course,
came at a critical time (just prior to the beginning of the 2007 fall
semester).  The committee felt that Nishon’s efforts in solving a major
problem at that critical time, as well as all the service that she
rendered “behind the scenes” merit special recognition.
Furthermore the committee noted that she is “extremely conscientious,
organized, efficient, patient and professional in everything she does.”
She is also the number one fan of the library softball team, The Dewey
Decimators, and attends every game.

Congratulations Nishon!

On behalf of KU Libraries I thank the SSEYA selection committee for
their work in completing the process this year. They are: Jon Giullian,
Leila Jacobs, Gary Samuelson, Laura Skarka, and Rita Wilson.

lorraine j. haricombe