Embracing the future, preserving the past

In the not-too-distant past, the distance between you and the vast collections at University of Iowa Libraries was dictated by geography. But changes in the ways information is discovered, shared, and used are transforming university research libraries and opening access to anyone with a computer.

The next Hawkeye Lunch and Learn in Iowa City will offer an insider’s view of University of Iowa Libraries as a statewide resource focused both on meeting the needs of 21st century students and researchers and on collecting and maintaining historical materials.

In a joint presentation, John Culshaw, university librarian, and David McCartney, university archivist, will speak on “Embracing the Future and Preserving the Past: The 21st Century Research Library,” at noon Wednesday, Feb. 11, in the Iowa Memorial Union Iowa Theater.

University Libraries took a huge leap forward with the opening of the Learning Commons in the Main Library in 2013. The library’s main floor was transformed into a tech-infused space for students to work independently or in groups with library staff available for expert-level assistance with academic and research issues.

At the same time, a number of projects have focused on digitizing collections to make them accessible to those outside of Iowa City. The Iowa Digital Library is a treasure trove of images, documents, and other digital content including thousands of online manuscripts, maps, fine art, historic newspapers, and scholarly works.

These collections continue to inform 21st century researchers as a vital part of the history of the university as well as the state of Iowa, Culshaw says.

University Libraries leadership and commitment to providing free public access to information available from the federal government was recognized with a “Library of the Year” award from the U.S. Government Printing Office in 2014.

The Hawkeye Lunch and Learn series offers monthly events in Des Moines and Iowa City designed to connect Iowa communities, university faculty, and government and industry leaders. The Provost’s Office of Outreach and Engagement sponsors the series. Upcoming events in Iowa City include:

March 4: Corinne Peek-Asa, “Steering Teens Safe: How Research Has Informed Best Practices for New Drivers”

April 8: Dr. Patrick Brophy, “Telemedicine in Iowa: Improving Health Care Delivery”

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, contact the Office of the Provost in advance at 319-335-3565.