Catherine Quinlan, dean of the USC Libraries, announced the changes to the USC community in an open letter, which you can read below:
Dear Colleagues and Friends,
In support of the objectives defined in our strategic plan—The Essential Library—I have introduced a new organizational structure for the USC Libraries. After consultation with library faculty and staff as well as many of the libraries’ users, I finalized the structure in late June. The changes described below are effective as of July 1, 2008.
The new structure emphasizes the importance of customer service, defining clear lines of authority, responsibility, and accountability to the needs of our diverse clientele. This includes the establishment of head librarian positions with overall operational responsibility for individual branch libraries.
I believe that this structure will better reflect and advance the essential functions of our libraries—collection development and management, providing appropriate technology for accessing research materials, and delivering excellent service. The expanded responsibilities of the branch library heads will allow them to more directly support effective research, teaching, and learning across USC.
The restructuring includes the establishment of the Dean’s Cabinet. This advisory group will help me to ensure that all activities throughout all of our libraries are focused on helping us achieve our vision—to become an inspiring, innovative, and integral partner in the scholarly achievements of USC.
I have enclosed charts that include the names and illustrate the reporting relationships of branch library heads and the Dean’s Cabinet. Please do not hesitate to call me if you have questions about the USC Libraries’ reorganization or how the changes will support the continued success of the University of Southern California.
Sincerely,
Catherine Quinlan
Dean of the USC Libraries