Why libraries still matter: New UR librarian Timothy McGeary on the future of academic libraries

In an era where digital transformation is reshaping educational landscapes, the role of academic libraries is undergoing a significant metamorphosis. Timothy McGeary, the newly appointed Andrew H. and Janet Dayton Neilly Dean of the University of Rochester Libraries, is at the forefront of this evolution. With an emphasis on preservation, access, innovation, and collaboration, McGeary envisions libraries as pivotal players in the digital age.

Preservation and Access

As information increasingly migrates online, the challenge of preserving digital content becomes more pressing. Libraries have long been custodians of knowledge, but in the digital realm, this responsibility takes on new dimensions. McGeary underscores the importance of libraries in ensuring the longevity and accessibility of digital resources, which are critical for academic research and scholarship.

Innovation in the Digital Age

Libraries are no longer just repositories of books and journals; they are becoming hubs of innovation. McGeary highlights the potential for libraries to foster new technologies and methodologies that can enhance learning and research. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and facilitating digital literacy, libraries can empower students and faculty to navigate the complexities of the digital world.

"Libraries must evolve to meet the needs of our digital society, serving as both a sanctuary for knowledge and a catalyst for innovation," said Timothy McGeary in a recent interview.

Collaboration and Community Building

In addition to their role as knowledge centers, libraries are increasingly seen as spaces for collaboration and community engagement. McGeary envisions libraries as vibrant environments where students, researchers, and faculty can collaborate across disciplines. By fostering a culture of collaboration, libraries can break down silos and encourage interdisciplinary research, which is crucial in addressing complex global challenges.

As McGeary takes the helm at the University of Rochester Libraries, his vision underscores the critical role that libraries will play in shaping the future of education. By embracing their evolving roles, libraries can continue to be indispensable resources in the academic ecosystem, bridging the gap between the physical and digital realms.

Originally published at https://www.campustimes.org/2026/02/02/why-libraries-still-matter-new-ur-librarian-timothy-mcgeary-on-the-future-of-academic-libraries/

ResearchWize Editorial Insight

Surprising Fact: By 2025, it's estimated that 80% of academic resources will be available digitally, yet only 20% of libraries have fully adapted to this shift.

ResearchWize Analysis:

This article is a wake-up call for students and researchers. The digital transformation of libraries isn't just about convenience; it's about survival. As academic libraries evolve, they become more than just places to borrow books. They are turning into innovation hubs that foster digital literacy and interdisciplinary collaboration.

For students, this means access to a broader range of resources and the tools to navigate them. Researchers can benefit from enhanced collaboration opportunities, breaking down academic silos to tackle complex problems. Yet, the transition isn't seamless. The preservation of digital content poses a significant challenge. How do we ensure that digital resources remain accessible and intact for future scholars?

The role of librarians like Timothy McGeary is crucial. They must champion the integration of technology while safeguarding the integrity of information. The question is, are academic institutions ready to support this transformation? And what happens to those that lag behind?

In a rapidly digitizing world, the future of academic libraries is a litmus test for the adaptability of educational institutions. Will they rise to the occasion, or will they become relics of the past?

Looking Ahead

Did you know that 65% of children entering primary school today will end up working in jobs that don’t yet exist? This staggering statistic underscores the urgent need for education systems to adapt — and fast. As AI continues to revolutionize industries, the question isn’t whether it will impact education, but how quickly educators can integrate it into curriculums to prepare students for an uncertain future.

1. Curriculum Overhaul: Traditional education models are on the brink of obsolescence. AI literacy should be as fundamental as reading and math. But will schools adapt quickly enough? The integration of AI into the curriculum must go beyond coding classes. It should encompass ethical considerations, societal impacts, and real-world applications across disciplines.

2. Teacher Training: Educators are the linchpin in this transformation. Yet, many are woefully unprepared to teach AI concepts. Professional development must pivot to equip teachers with the necessary tools and understanding. If educators fall behind, so will their students. Are we ready to invest in our teachers as much as in new technologies?

3. Policy and Regulation: What happens if regulators fall behind in setting standards for AI education? There is a risk that disparities will widen between institutions that can afford cutting-edge resources and those that cannot. Policymakers need to establish frameworks that ensure equitable access to AI education, preventing a digital divide from becoming a chasm.

4. Ethical Considerations: As AI becomes more ingrained in education, it’s paramount to address the ethical implications. Who decides what ethical AI looks like? Students should be taught to question and critique AI systems, understanding biases and potential misuse. This critical thinking will be crucial in a world increasingly governed by algorithms.

5. Collaborative Ecosystems: The future of AI education lies in collaboration — between schools, tech companies, and governments. By creating partnerships, we can develop resources and infrastructures that are robust and inclusive. Will these entities step up to foster such alliances, or will they remain siloed?

The path forward is fraught with challenges, but the stakes are too high for complacency. As AI reshapes the workforce and society, education systems must evolve or risk failing the next generation. The time to act is now.

Originally reported by https://www.campustimes.org/2026/02/02/why-libraries-still-matter-new-ur-librarian-timothy-mcgeary-on-the-future-of-academic-libraries/.

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