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July 30.2025
2 Minutes Read

Touro Libraries Annual Meeting 2025: Innovations That Inspire

Group photo at Touro Libraries Annual Meeting 2025, diverse participants smiling in a conference room.

Annual Staff Meeting Highlights: A Step Towards Innovation

Last week, the staff at Touro Libraries across various campuses gathered at Cross River for their much-anticipated annual meeting. The room was filled with warm conversations and excitement, as staff members caught up and shared ideas. During the event, Director of Libraries Bashe Simon extended a heartfelt welcome, acknowledging both returning and new staff members who have recently joined the Touro family.

Key Projects and Developments Unveiled

The meeting featured a series of informative presentations showcasing developments since the last gathering. Among the highlights, Albert Bina, the Head of Tech Support, updated the staff on new technology rollouts, including upgraded laptops and monitors. David Druelinger also introduced the revamped library website, meticulously designed based on student feedback. This refreshing transition promises a more user-friendly experience for library patrons.

Outreach Initiatives: Connecting Resources with Community Needs

The Library Outreach Committee presented strategies aimed at enhancing visibility and accessibility to Touro's resources. Holly Skir shared insights from her participation at the American Library Association Conference, emphasizing trends in effective promotional strategies. Additionally, Theo Schefer discussed exciting projects for the library blog and showcased new promotional materials, signaling a colorful and engaging approach to library outreach.

Innovative Educational Resources: Impact on Student Savings

Another significant focus of the meeting was on Touro’s Open Educational Resources (OER) program, led by Kirk Snyder. It was revealed that OER initiatives have collectively saved students over $1.1 million by replacing traditional textbooks with innovative educational materials. Emma Larson-Whittaker highlighted her contributions to a new OER designed to engage students through dynamic animations and voiceovers, fostering an interactive learning environment.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Touro Libraries

As the meeting came to a close, Associate Director Michoel Rotenfeld emphasized the importance of digital resources in libraries. The camaraderie and shared vision expressed by staff were evident, indicating a robust future for Touro Libraries. With the innovations set in motion, staff are eager to implement these changes and witness their positive impact on student learning and engagement.

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