UW-Madison Libraries Magazine Fall 2021 | Page 4

AND WE ’ RE BACK !

The beginning of an academic year is always a time of exhilaration and hope , with a touch of uncertainty . The excitement that abounds on campus each fall is palpable . While 2021 – 22 will look slightly different than years past — yet far more “ normal ” than last year — I continue to reflect on all we have accomplished during this most challenging and unusual period .

We are glad to be back on campus ! Back to busy spaces and even busier services . Back to greeting students and working alongside faculty and staff to offer an unrivaled academic experience . Back to taking in all of the energy that makes the UW – Madison campus so exhilarating . Moving through the challenges of safely reopening our campus was and continues to be a huge undertaking . Through it all , I am deeply grateful to and proud of my colleagues and their ability to rise above challenging circumstances .
As we look forward , it is essential to note that we never lost sight of our mission and strategic directions , even with all we faced . We continue to advance emerging research , pursue educational innovation , broaden and deepen access to important resources , revitalize our spaces , develop our organizational strength , and realize our values .
The work related to these directions continued . In many cases , we thrived as we demonstrated the impact and value of our efforts to the research , teaching , and learning at UW – Madison . We have re-engaged a full program of inperson services , continued to focus on our equity and diversity strategic plan , collaborated on several meaningful partnerships , strengthened our capacity to preserve digital objects and artifacts , and so much more . You ’ ll see several examples of our work in this issue .
I am energized and excited as the campus regains its vitality . We look forward to enjoying the company and collaboration of our colleagues in person . Our campus community brings joy — and I am so thankful to be back .
Be well and On , Wisconsin !
Lisa R . Carter , Vice Provost for Libraries and University Librarian