Exploring the Transnational University Library

As the newest jewel in the Cornell University Library collection, the Distributed eLibrary of Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar is pleased to host a visit from Sarah Thomas, Ph.D., the Carl A. Kroch University Librarian of Cornell University. Her leadership in the advocacy of information technology and digital initiatives has helped shape the innovative role of the research library in the modern academic environment as well as several global library and information initiatives.

With the opening of the Qatar campus, the Distributed eLibrary of WCMC–Q added a new dimension to the 21 specialized and general information centers in the Cornell library system. Following visits by WCMC–Q staff to the Ithaca and New York campuses, Dr. Thomas is set to visit Qatar early March to see first hand how this extraordinary global venture will enhance and extend Cornell University’s international presence, and to explore ways to strengthen our ties and develop collaborative opportunities.

Highlights of the visit will include tours of Education City (EC) and meetings with representatives at Qatar Foundation and other EC libraries, as well as librarians representing information venues such as the Qatar National Library, Qatar University and Hamad Medical Corporation.

During her visit, Dr. Thomas will speak to members of the library community on the transformational library in the transnational university, reviewing the revolutionary trends in academic libraries that are changing the way librarians and readers interact, and the way libraries are organized. Other discussions during her visit will investigate areas of mutual interest and potential shared projects between the WCMC–Q; Distributed eLibrary and the Cornell University Library, including the sharing of resources, digital projects and repositories, and open access initiatives.

For a biography of Dr. Thomas, click here.