“The time is right for MIT to articulate a bold new vision for a modern research library. I’m asking the Future of Libraries Task Force to think broadly and creatively about the unique role MIT Libraries should play as a leader in defining the future of libraries.” —Provost Martin A. Schmidt

Future of Libraries Task Force Preliminary Report

The Ad Hoc Task Force on the Future of Libraries was charged with developing a vision of how the MIT Libraries ought to evolve to best advance the creation, dissemination, and preservation of knowledge, not only to support MIT’s mission but also to position the Institute as a leader in the reinvention of research libraries. The Task Force, composed of faculty, staff, and students from across the Institute, sought input from the broader MIT community through open forums, group discussions, and the Idea Bank.

The Task Force has issued its preliminary report, which includes a set of 10 recommendations that outline a comprehensive vision for the Libraries in the coming decades:

Thank you for your feedback

Input from across the Institute — and beyond — has been critical to the Task Force as it develops a bold vision for the MIT Libraries and research libraries globally.

The open comment period closed on February 15, 2017. Thank you to all those whose thoughtful contributions have enriched this process and helped us produce an inspiring vision for the future.