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Some library spaces, collections, and services will have limited availability from May through July 2026 as we move into Carrier Library – Read More about Some library spaces, collections, and services will have limited availability from May through July 2026 as we move into Carrier Library

Strategic Priorities

Having just concluded an ambitious, four-year Libraries Strategic Plan, and building on findings from our successful 2024-25 Academic Program Review, the JMU Libraries’ Dean’s Council has developed a set of high-level objectives to guide our work over the next two years.

Staff and faculty are engaged in a thoughtful and appropriately-paced process to develop granular goals and steps toward these objectives — while investing in the re-opening of a renovated and expanded Carrier Library for Fall semester 2026, the renewal of JMU’s general education curriculum, and university-wide work toward a new campus-level strategic plan — all in formation this academic year.

A more articulated version of the Libraries’ strategic plan will be shared when it is ready.

JMU Libraries Plan: 2025-2027

Informed by our guiding statements and in a framework of shared governance, the JMU Libraries develops and regularly tracks progress toward a set of strategic goals.

#1: Connected Spaces, Common Purpose

We will position the Libraries as a unified, understandable, and impactful entity advancing the teaching and research mission of the university through a cohesive, navigable system of campus-wide physical and digital spaces.

#2: Leadership in Literacies

We will apply our expertise in librarianship, educational technology, archives, and instructional design to the challenges of data-, AI-, media-, civic and information literacy: supporting critical thinking, informed and ethical decision-making, and continuous learning among our students, colleagues, and selves.

#3: Organizational Excellence

We will pursue internal organizational excellence: working to realize our statement of aspirational culture and live our expressed values fully, as we provide Libraries users with high-quality, sustainable services and resources.

#4: Inclusive Excellence

We will prioritize accessibility and representation throughout the work of the Libraries, striving to create more equitable knowledge ecosystems, foster a sense of belonging, agency, and opportunity, and help all segments of our community feel supported in their learning and growth.

Last refreshed, August 2025.