The library of the 21st century is an innovative, flexible and creative center for curiosity and intellectual growth. The University of Arkansas Libraries rise to the challenge each day by providing technologically advanced options for research, beautiful spaces for group and individual study and rotating art exhibits for an aesthetic presence.

Through the second annual Red, White & True faculty and staff giving initiative that kicked off last month, University Libraries can continue at the cutting edge of technological advances in research support. Many campus donors believe in the value and importance of the University Libraries, as shown last year when they made the libraries one of the top designation choices in the inaugural Red, White & True effort.

“We are proud of the support given to us by the campus community and consider it a compliment,” said University Libraries’ dean Carolyn Allen. “I cannot thank our employee donors enough for contributing to our success, but we still have a long way to go. The campus is expanding at an astonishing rate, and we are working hard to stay ahead of the curve. Our students, faculty, staff, alumni and community friends rely on our libraries, and we challenge ourselves every day to remain the go-to place for research and discovery.”

The University of Arkansas library system comprises the David W. Mullins Library, which is the main research library, and four branch libraries: the Robert A. and Vivian Young Law Library, the Fine Arts Library, the Chemistry and Biochemistry Library and the Physics Library. The combined holdings of the University Libraries total more than 1.96 million volumes of books and periodicals, 42,000 serial publications and 14,933 linear feet of manuscript materials. Other resources include several thousand maps, numerous pamphlets, sound and video recordings and electronic databases and journals.

“I love the University of Arkansas,” said Tim Nutt, interim head of the University Libraries’ Special Collections and Red, White & True volunteer. “I enjoy giving to the Special Collections of the University Libraries where Arkansas’ history is preserved and celebrated — something that is important to me not only as an historian, but as an Arkansan. I encourage you to support – at any level possible – the unit, department, or program on campus that makes you proud.”

The University of Arkansas Libraries are the vibrant and diverse intellectual center of a 21^st century campus dedicated to putting students first. Gifts made through Red, White & True will help the Libraries continue to grow and adapt. Everyone — students, staff, faculty and visitors from around the globe — has a stake in the Libraries and in putting the “you” in the YOU of A.

As you consider your involvement in this year’s effort, running through June 30, remember there are countless areas of campus that appreciate and need your support. Your gift says something about what you value, so give to the area you are most passionate about, and make a difference today for the University of Arkansas.

For more information about Red, White & True or to stay updated on our progress, please visit http://annualfund.uark.edu/facultystaff.php.