Fred Barnhart, Dean of University Libraries at Northern Illinois University, provided a comprehensive update on changes in library services and facilities during this week's meeting.
Fred shared information with club members about:
- The transition to digital collections and technology-based research.
- The economic challenges, including journal subscription inflation.
- The growing role of the library as a “third space,” complete with study areas, a digital media lab, a children’s area, and specialized archives.
- Unique holdings at NIU, including medieval manuscripts, cuneiform clay tablets, and a robust Southeast Asian collection.
- The restored Gutenberg Press and the popularity of hands-on book labs.
- Collaborations with local organizations, including live musical performances in the library and specialized programs such as Earth Fest.
- Ongoing fundraising initiatives for upgrades to key library facilities.
Club members congratulated Dean Barnhart on the library’s innovative expansions and asked about the public access to NIU’s collections.