A Message from the University Librarian
Julie Mosbo Ballestro, University Librarian & Assistant Provost
As we move forward from 2023’s transitional times, I am delighted to share how Texas A&M University Libraries have embraced transformation in 2024.
Our vital programs, which were once understaffed, are now flourishing thanks to the dedication and expertise of skilled librarians and professionals. University administrators supported the transformation that revitalized library services and produced considerable savings.
For instance, our OpenEd initiative, aimed at making course materials more affordable, saved our students an impressive $2.2 million in the 2023-24 academic year. Open Access saved scholars $2.4 million on publishing in Fiscal Year 2024.
It is clear the Libraries are making a significant impact across campus during a year that was also full of milestones and breakthroughs.
We are thrilled to celebrate the University Press’ 50 years of publishing remarkable books by Texas A&M faculty and esteemed scholars from around the globe. This September, we welcomed the Jack K. Williams Library in Galveston into our library family, providing the Texas A&M University at Galveston campus with new and enhanced services to support their academic and research enterprise.
Continuing our commitment to excellence, the Medical Sciences Library is excited to introduce UpToDate, an online tool that provides our Aggies with convenient comprehensive medical information covering over 11,500 topics in 25 specialties and 1,500 patient education topics.
This fall, we proudly introduced the Tech Bar at Sterling C. Evans Annex and the Business Library & Collaboration Commons. It provides patrons with easy access to technology including Chromebooks, digital cameras, projectors, calculators, sound mixers, telescopes and more. We are excited to announce that there are already plans to expand this wonderful service, ensuring that high-quality tech remains accessible to all Aggies at no cost.
With the addition of our new book arts and historic press room librarian this fall, we are delighted to welcome back classes to the Historic Press Room. It has once again become a vibrant hub for learning and exploration in the art of traditional printing and bookmaking.
Speaking of exciting expansion, we recently met with space planners to see how we can carry our transformative year forward for decades to come. Our discussions focused on reimagining library spaces to better serve the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s users.
In the spirit of excellence, the Libraries’ tremendous staff continued to achieve honors and recognitions for their service.
This year, Administrative Coordinator Michelle Brown-Link earned the Office of the Provost’s Tradition of Excellence Staff Award, and Medical Sciences Librarian Margaret Foster ’98 earned the Lucretia W. McClure Excellence in Education Award from the Medical Library Association.
2024 was a year of transformation. 2025 will be the year of innovation.
All the best,
Julie Mosbo Ballestro
University Librarian Assistant Provost of University Libraries
Texas A&M University2024
