From the Dean

Dear friends of the University Libraries,

As we begin 2021, it is an understatement to say 2020 was unusual. During the first few months the world began grappling with a global pandemic and Virginia Tech transitioned to all virtual learning. Our library experts met the challenge of serving our Hokies’ learning, teaching, and research needs because we have a strong foundation in providing our services to wherever our faculty and students are. When it was time to open our facilities in the fall, we were ready to resume select in-person services in accordance with the university’s health and safety guidelines.

In this magazine, you will find stories about many ways the University Libraries meets the needs of our community and makes a difference beyond our campuses. From participating in COVID-19 data analysis for a White House Call to Action to 3D printing personal protective equipment for our region’s healthcare professionals, experts across the library have collaborated with university colleagues and contributed to projects, events, and research during these unprecedented times.

I encourage you to read the story about Hokies@Home, a project collecting and preserving the extraordinary experiences of members of the Hokie Nation during the COVID-19 global pandemic. The story includes a way for Hokies to submit their own stories, photos, and videos. This collection will be an invaluable resource for future researchers and students to learn about our collective experiences. 

This last year has been full of challenges for all of us. We have met those challenges and have grown from our experiences. As we look to 2021, I wish all of you a happy new year.

All the best,

Tyler Walters, Ph.D. Dean
University Libraries, Virginia Tech