The Latin root for book is “lib,” but the English word “library” has grown to mean so much more than a collection of books.
Over the past six years, since its expansion, the DiMenna-Nyselius Library has undergone a series of changes.
“We moved in March of 2001, doubling our space,” said Joan Overfield, director of library services. “The previous space was built for 300,000 volumes, while the new space can hold 450,000.”
This overflow of volumes comes at a time when libraries are becoming increasingly digitalized.
“Recent technology upgrades to the library include the installation of 30 new computers in the instruction lab, the implementation of the digital collections project, which provides online access to special collections, and upgrades to the online document service delivery system,” said Christine Siegel, chairwoman of the Faculty Library Committee and professor in the Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions.
“I expect this trend toward increased use of technology to continue with the adoption of more online journal subscriptions,” Siegel added.
In addition, the library has doubled its e-subscriptions over the past five years.
“These technological upgrades clearly benefit the faculty as they provide support for both our teaching and research,” said Siegel.
One of the groups leading this effort of library digitization is Google.com. In December 2004, Google announced its plan to digitally scan books in the libraries of Harvard, Stanford, University of Michigan and the University of Oxford, as well as the New York Public Library.
“Even before we started Google, we dreamed of making the incredible breadth of information that librarians so lovingly organize searchable online,” said Larry Paige, Google founder and president of Roducts, in a press release.
Paige said he hoped that “every Google user can search [hard copy books] instantly.”
In reference to a poll conducted by students at the end of last spring semester, Overfield said, “Students want e-resources, the ability to find information online and modern equipment.”
The library has tried to keep up with the sweeping amounts of technological upgrades, while still maintaining its footing in the classics.
This year alone it has hosted everything from a Madden tournament to a visit from the Vatican’s Cardinal Martino.
Starting last November the library added a new member to the staff, “fairfieldulib,” the library’s America Online screen name that answers questions via instant messages.
“Like every new service it takes time to start up,” said Overfield.
Overfield is confident that once students begin using the instant message help, the service will gain in popularity.
Although the library has gone digital, it has continued to increase the number of paper volumes put into circulation each year.
“We have peer data from other Jesuit schools and aspirant schools, that we look at,” Overfield said, explaining the importance of development in a competitive manner.
“We submit a report to the University saying this is where we are, this is where we would like to be,” she said.
Overfield stressed the importance of the library facilities in augmenting the reputation of the University.
“When people talk about great academic universities, the library is one of the most important factors.”
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