The Folsom Library’s recent cuts of several databases used mainly by EMAC and LLC students indicates an alarming trend occurring within the library’s and Institute’s fiscal operations. While the journals, which were eliminated after Folsom’s budget was not increased to cover the price hikes by a number of publications, were used sparingly by the sparse H&SS students, they are nevertheless an important resource for a limited but important sector of students and professors, and we worry that future cuts may impact more of the campus.
The most important question that needs to be asked is why the library spent money on renovations for eye-pleasing aesthetics and spacious lounging areas in a building more than half the student body will never visit, instead of providing students and professors with the resources they need for their aspirations. Not only has the library been removing the books, but now they are reducing electronic resources as well.
While engineering students and professors may be ignoring the library’s decision to cut a few humanities and abstract journals, another question emerges: Is this only the beginning? According to information provided by Ellen Esrock, as prices for journals continue to rise, Folsom will have to incur an extra $250,000 in expenses, a number its budget is not set to cover. Such a shortcoming is unacceptable.
All of RPI’s students and professors deserve the resources they need to complete their degrees and research studies. Singling out H&SS journals is inequitable to this small minority, especially since it contradicts The Rensselaer’s Plan’s goal of diversifying the Institute. Furthermore, extending the reduction in online databases to other departments is equally unacceptable. How can Rensselaer expect to attract the brightest minds if it fails to provide them with the tools they need to succeed?
The administration and the library must re-examine its current allocation of financial resources and discover ways to pay for database price increases. While the library may be underused in a physical sense by students, its electronic resources are invaluable for all of Rensselaer’s current and future programs.
