UNIVERSITY LIBRARIAN

I am delighted to share with you the 2022 University of Waterloo Library Annual Report. This year has been characterized by re-connecting and re-imagining our library services and spaces as the University welcomed students, instructors, employees and scholars back to campus for fully in-person learning and research.

As we re-connect with the campus community, the Library is applying the lessons learned during the pandemic that showed us there is deep value in both in-person and virtual information work. Scholars could be connecting with the Library from another continent through our virtual “chat” reference or accessing digital course reserves. Others may be onsite studying in between classes or consulting with a librarian. In combining both in-person and virtual approaches, we are more effectively supporting the full spectrum of scholarly activities and increasing access to the Library.

In the pages of the Library Annual Report 2022, you will find compelling stories of the many ways in which the Library is situated at the heart of the academic journey for students, faculty and scholars across disciplines. We explore these stories using the three themes of the Library Strategic Plan 2020–2025 – Catalyzing learning and research, Engaging with our community, and Growing as a learning organization – to recognize and celebrate the Library’s significant progress toward our strategic commitments.

We have been re-imagining library spaces and programs in the context of the University’s vision for Waterloo at 100. This vision springs from the roots of our current strategy, and pushes us to look forward, and to think boldly. As a research library, Waterloo provides access to scholarly information, data, specialized expertise, and technology-rich spaces that inspire and facilitate collaboration as well as individual scholarship. We are focused on advancing Waterloo’s ambitions and strengths, and on becoming a place where educators and scholars can co-create, develop, and refine ideas.

We continue to develop rich and enduring collections in all formats, and to carefully curate the resources in our care – an essential function of a research library within a university. I am deeply grateful to the outstanding Library team who makes it all possible. It is an honor to work with such a dedicated and innovative group. As always, I thank you for your support and engagement with the Library. Happy reading!

Beth Namachchivaya University Librarian