Statement on VSU libraries

I am concerned about the Vermont State University administration’s decision to end circulation of most physical books in its libraries. Although digital resources are an essential part of education today, the administration’s changes eliminate parts of in person library resources and intellectual opportunities VSU’s students expect from their institution of higher education.

Digital catalogues require students to have reliable broadband access that is not yet available to every home in Vermont. I am concerned that students who live in communities without reliable and affordable internet connection and students who rely on print media in their studies will not have equitable access to the library.

Additionally, the all-digital catalog removes Vermont State Colleges from the inter-library loan system (ILL), that provides access to books from libraries across the state, and strains ILL systems, as other libraries absorb or VSC’s catalog.

This announcement left students and community members feeling blindsided and shaken. I urge the administration to pause this decision until there has been more time for collective conversation about VSC’s needs, the costs and benefits of this library change, and a clear plan for how library spaces will be used.