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Library Program Statement

The purpose of the J. Eugene Smith Library is to provide for the informational, instructional, and research needs of the faculty, staff, and students of the University as well as the community at large. This support is provided to these groups and individuals through the continued efforts of a professional and support staff who select, acquire, organize and maintain the collections and access to material (in many formats).

These include:

  • A core collection of traditional materials such as books, audio-visual material, microformat material, (serial) journals and publications, and US Government documents.
  • Access to electronic information in many differing formats, online access to electronic databases worldwide, and a variety of developing technologies.

Additionally, these points are to be considered as vital aspects of the Library's purpose:

  • An environment maintained for study and research which is pleasantly and efficiently run while providing schedules of service convenient to library patrons.
  • Staffing (both professional and support) to assist, direct, and aid users in identifying, obtaining and making use of materials and information suitable for their needs and interests.

In partnership with the University and the Connecticut State University System the Library maintains a standard of excellence in line with the institutions that it serves. The Library follows the guidelines of and attempts to provide for the ever changing needs of both ECSU and CSCU. The Smith Library, therefore, is a library whose staff is dedicated to the education of the students of ECSU in research skills, new information technologies, and lifelong continued learning. This can be provided through the one-on-one interaction through the Reference Department or a structured instructional classroom setting; it is also accomplished through the provision of interfaces and menu-driven assistance screens for those patrons making use of the library by way of remote access. This educational mission is not, however, limited to the confines of Eastern but spreads throughout the community, state, and the entire Connecticut State University System.