The University of Iowa Libraries is pleased to share the latest edition of our annual publication, Bindings.
With the fall 2024 semester underway, this magazine is a chance to look back on many of the ways the Libraries contributed to the UI campus and the world beyond during the 2023–24 academic year. Our community has so much to be proud of.
This edition also represents a significant redesign led by Lauren Coghlan, art director and creative coordinator. The result is a magazine that reflects the personality and dynamism of the Libraries in the current moment.John Culshaw
With that in mind, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me with your questions and feedback. I’m always happy to discuss the services, resources, and brilliant staff that set the Libraries apart.
Jack B. King University Librarian
University of Iowa Libraries
Features
Celebrating 50 years of Hardin Library for the Health Sciences
In this issue’s cover story, we mark Hardin’s major milestone and unveil the brand-new renovations that reflect how 21st-century students learn.
Crafting the future of Conservation and Collections Care
The unique Library and Archives Conservation Education (LACE) fellowship preserves the past while training the conservators of tomorrow.
Staff Highlights
Q&A: Meet Jade E. Davis, associate university librarian for teaching, learning, and research
In February 2024, Davis joined the Hawkeye community from the University of Pennsylvania Libraries. She shares insights from her first academic year on campus and what makes the UI Libraries special.
Matthew Butler receives 2023 Arthur Benton University Librarian’s Award for Excellence
Butler, a senior developer and research manager at the Digital Scholarship and Publishing Studio, has developed custom code to be used as a research tool by institutions worldwide—and that’s just the beginning.
Staff spotlights: Patricia Baird and Brad Ferrier
Both staff members were recognized by the UI Staff Council for outstanding customer service and creating a welcoming environment.
Student Employees
13 undergraduates awarded student library employee scholarships for 2023–24
These scholarships support the student workers who help make the Libraries such a crucial resource are made possible thanks to the kindness of donors.
Student employee spotlights: Ramin Roshandel and Cassandra Parsons
Roshandel and Parsons reflect on the impact of their time at the Rita Benton Music Library and Hardin Library, respectively.
More from inside the Libraries
Jane Roth reflects on term as Libraries Advancement Council chair, commitment to university
Roth’s connection to Iowa began with her parents, and her generosity includes donating original Herky drawings to Special Collections and Archives with her mother in her father’s memory.
Turning the page with Making the Book, Past and Present, the Main Library Gallery’s fall 2023 exhibit
The exhibition was curated by Eric Ensley, curator of rare books and maps at the Special Collections and Archives, and Emily Martin, adjunct assistant professor of bookbinding and book arts at the University of Iowa Center for the Book.
A chance encounter at the Main Library sparks one couple’s lifelong love story
For one Hawkeye couple, Harry and Georgia Mihms, the journey of a thousand miles started at a wobbly table in the Main Library.
Hundreds of community members gather on Sciences Library lawn to observe the historic solar eclipse
On April 8, 2024, the sun reached peak (89%) obscuration over Iowa City at 2:01 p.m.
