From the Interim Dean: Martha C. Zimmerman
The SU Libraries have witnessed unprecedented change in 2024. On May 23, the Libraries, along with the 16 other libraries in the USMAI library consortium, migrated to the Alma/PrimoVE library services platform. A library services platform is the suite of software that controls all library functions: acquisition and cataloging of library materials, making those materials accessible, circulation, inter-library loan, and the catalog used by patrons to find materials. This migration was several years in the making and represents the culmination of painstaking work by dedicated library staff.
The day after system migration was the last day on campus for Libraries Dean Dr. Bea Hardy. Our annual summer picnic was a sad one, as we drank a toast to Bea’s success in her new position at Goucher College in Towson, MD. Bea served as Dean of Libraries and Instructional Resources for 12 years and was instrumental in bringing the award-winning Guerrieri Academic Commons into existence, as well as in developing the programs and services which have consistently earned the SU Libraries top rankings in the Princeton Review.
Following Bea’s departure, it was my privilege to assume the role of Interim Dean, a role in which I will continue until my retirement at the end of December of this year. It has been an honor to serve the outstanding staff of this library, whose commitment and energy constantly bring forth new and innovative ways to serve and advance the mission of Salisbury University. I shall miss them all.
July 1 marked the roll-out of a new business enterprise system across the University. We were joined in this transition by four other USM campuses. The Workday system controls functions such as payroll, contracts, purchasing and other major business functions of the University. There have been many growing pains in adjusting to this new system. Staff across campus have worked tirelessly to resolve problems and keep processes moving along.
On October 23, we received the announcement that we have a new Dean of Libraries, effective February 5, 2025. Joan Ruelle brings more than 20 years of experience in academic library leadership to the SU Libraries. Joan comes to us from Elon University, where she has served as Dean of the Carol Grotnes Belk Library since 2012. During her interview, Joan shared her vision of the library as a collaborative and innovative space, which aligns perfectly with the mission of the SU Libraries and the University community we serve. Welcome Joan!
