“`html
After over 30 years in academic library management, Gale Etschmaier will conclude her tenure in June as dean of University Libraries at Florida State University. Since her arrival in 2018, she has played a significant role in transforming the Libraries into dynamic, contemporary spaces that cater to the entire FSU community.
Etschmaier came with a wealth of experience from various universities but noted that FSU distinguished itself through its bond with the community and its influence on students. She perceives the library as “a hub for intellectual community where students feel a sense of belonging.”
“The more I discovered about Florida State University, the more I understood it is that kind of establishment — it is truly embedded within the community,” she stated. “It’s a university that transforms lives and enhances the economy of the local area, the state, and the nation, and I am delighted to have joined Florida State. It has been such an extraordinary journey.”
Etschmaier amplified community involvement and influence at FSU by engaging with students and faculty, spearheading advancements in service, technology, and collaboration. Her vision included rejuvenating physical spaces, overseeing a renovation of the second floor of Strozier Library, which has turned into a premier location for student study and teamwork. She also upgraded the Libraries’ audiovisual technology with a new projector system, screens, and cameras. Additionally, she enhanced the Robert B. Bradley Reading Room for presentations and lectures.
“Our Libraries are tremendously significant to the university, and Dean Etschmaier has performed an outstanding job in transitioning them into hubs of innovation and community involvement. While we are saddened by her retirement, we are immensely thankful for her contributions and extend our congratulations on her forthcoming and well-earned retirement.”
— FSU President Richard McCullough
“Our Libraries are tremendously significant to the university, and Dean Etschmaier has performed an outstanding job in transitioning them into hubs of innovation and community involvement,” remarked FSU President Richard McCullough. “While we are saddened by her retirement, we are immensely thankful for her contributions and extend our congratulations on her forthcoming and well-earned retirement.”
Etschmaier is acknowledged for her student-focused initiatives such as “Art in the Library,” which features artwork from students and faculty, along with impromptu concerts. These initiatives enrich the library experience for patrons, enhance the visibility of the arts at FSU, and offer invaluable professional development opportunities for the student body.
She collaborated with faculty and librarians to terminate the Elsevier subscription package, resulting in an annual savings of $1 million for FSU Libraries. This enabled resources to be redirected towards critical collections. Her advocacy led to the first budget increase for library collections in over 15 years.
The post Celebrating Gale Etschmaier’s legacy of innovation and service at Florida State University Libraries appeared first on Florida State University News.
“`