Barr Smith Library Appeal

The University's annual Barr Smith Library Appeal has taken on greater significance in light of the current economic climate.

The dramatic drop in the value of the Australian dollar has increased pressure on the Library's ability to purchase books and journals.

The Barr Smith Library is the University's main library, serving more than 20,000 students, as well as academics, researchers and the general public, with more than 2.2 million hardcopy items and electronic resources.

The Barr Smith Library Appeal - held annually to raise funds for the Library - is again calling for support from the wider community.

"Through the quality of items and services on offer, the Library continues to provide young people with opportunities to help jump-start their careers, and give them a strong foundation to build upon for the future," said University Librarian Ray Choate.

"However, meeting the costs of maintaining the Barr Smith Library collections has become more and more challenging in the current economic climate.

"Now more than ever, the generosity of donors and friends will make a difference to the resources the Library can offer to the students, staff and members of the wider community who come through our doors, or visit online, every day.

"The 2009 Appeal will be used as a crucial source of funds to cover priorities in all areas," he said.

Last year's Appeal enabled the Library to purchase more than 800 new titles and expand its virtual collection of electronic books available at all hours to students and staff.

"The 2009 Appeal will underpin the Barr Smith Library's future as the premier research library in South Australia, and ensure that we continue to foster first-class learning, teaching and research," Mr Choate said.

"Many members of the community - including past and current students and staff - understand and appreciate the important role that libraries play in the lives of both students and society. We are extremely grateful for their donations."

For more information about the Barr Smith Library Appeal, or to make a donation, please contact Development and Alumni
Email: development@adelaide.edu.au
Phone: +61 8 8303 5800
Web: www.alumni.adelaide.edu.au/bsl