York University Libraries (YUL) made important improvements to its programs, services and resources. Since 2002 YUL has periodically conducted a survey of students and faculty to assess their satisfaction with library support.  We are pleased to report that the 2007 survey results indicate resources and facilities fared noticeably better than in the 2004 and 2002 surveys. In 2007, students recognized and appreciated the efforts to make YUL spaces the best place to study outside the classroom. Graduate students praised their new dedicated study room. Undergraduates and graduates appreciated the new Bronfman Business Library, extensive renovations to the Steacie Science and Engineering Library and modest changes to Scott Library. Faculty and graduate students extol the value of electronic journals which allows them to read research materials any where at any time. Our growing collection of electronic journals continues to improve support for research which is evidenced by the decrease in interlibrary loan requests for articles.

The LibQual+ survey and our strategic planning process indicated areas where more effort is needed. While the campus community appreciated the improvements to our facilities, there remains a large gap between the capacity of library space and the demand from 50,000 plus students. Next to study space and collections, staff were recognized as our greatest asset, therefore staff development and staff support has been identified as a priority for the next few years. Although developments for the collections were well received, it was evident that further efforts are needed to meet the needs of faculty and graduate students.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the members of York Libraries and of the greater campus community who contributed to the creation of Open Doors: Open Minds – the Libraries’ new strategic plan.

Cynthia Archer,
University Librarian
January 2008