Thorin to discuss the changing role of the academic librarian in the ‘unbound’ library

Thorin to discuss the changing role of the academic librarian in the ‘unbound’ libraryAugust 18, 2006Mary Beth Hintonmbhinton@syr.edu

University Librarian and Dean of Libraries Suzanne Thorin will speak Thursday, Sept. 14, at 4 p.m. in the Peter Graham Scholarly Commons (first floor of Syracuse University’s E.S. Bird Library) on “Libraries and Scholarship.” This event, sponsored by Syracuse University Library Associates, is free and open to the public. A reception will follow the lecture.

In her talk, Thorin will explain how the role of the academic librarian is changing. Instead of focusing mostly on building and maintaining a collection of books, librarians are now entering the world of research and teaching. With the library itself becoming “unbound” because of its growing electronic presence, librarians are being freed from the limitations of space and are able to broaden and deepen their value in the academic community.

In 2005, Thorin came to Syracuse from Indiana University, where she was the Ruth Lilly University Dean of University Libraries and associate vice president for digital library development. Before that, she worked at the Library of Congress in various capacities, including associate librarian and administrator of digital programs. Thorin received two master’s degrees from the University of Michigan, one in library and information science and the other in music. Her bachelor’s degree, in music, is from North Park College in Chicago.

Paid parking is available in the Marion and Comstock visitor lots.