Thinking Boldly! College and University Library Mission Statements as Roadsigns to the Future

Abstract

The future of libraries as both a physical and a virtual place is integral to the success of academic institutions. While speculation about the future viability of libraries is evident, it has been difficult to identify the directions libraries intend to go. New roles for academic librarians have been suggested in the literature, however, it has not been clear if these roles connect with expressed library mission and vision. In this study of California academic library mission statements, a content analysis of language reveals that the future academic library will blend traditional professional practice with an increased external response to the larger institution and community. Roadsigns for the future are suggested by a close examination of fifty-eight formal statements of purpose. These academic libraries describe through expressed language how multidimensional and complex the future is being defined. While boldness and imagination is evident, the research suggests that continuous revision and refinement of focus is needed.