Skip to Main Content

Today's hours:

See all library hours »

  • Ask a Librarian
  • FAQ

About the Libraries

Mission Statement

In the winter of 2019-2020, the Vassar College Libraries undertook an effort to update and revise its organizational mission statement, vision, values, and goals & objectives.  This work sought to align the work of the Vassar College Libraries with Vassar College’s strategic areas of focus: Academic Excellence, Campus Community & Culture, and Vassar in the World.

Mission

The Vassar College Libraries advance the educational mission of the College by empowering an inclusive community of scholars, teachers, and learners.  

Vision

The Vassar College Libraries is the intellectual hub of Vassar College.  We enable the discovery of new avenues for inquiry and expression and champion innovation in pedagogy and scholarship. We are engaged contributors in Vassar’s vibrant and diverse learning community.

Values

The Vassar College Libraries’ pursuit of our mission is guided by these shared commitments:

  1. We embrace the richness of our community and collections by striving for diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the Libraries’ work.

  2. We recognize that access to information is essential to empowerment.

  3. We commit to thoughtful and discerning stewardship of collections.

  4. We seek to enhance our impact through collaboration with colleagues, patrons, and partners in the world at large.

  5. We respect the experiences and perspectives of our patrons and colleagues.

  6. We champion innovation in scholarship, teaching, and library services.

  7. We support students and faculty in their pursuit of academic excellence.

  8. We celebrate the joy of discovery.

  9. We advocate for change that brings these values to bear on the world around us.

The Vassar College Libraries work to achieve its mission by providing excellent collections and services, and by pursuing a wide range of evolving goals and objectives.

View of Thompson Library ceiling, chandelier, and tapestries