A letter from the interim dean

As part of Destination Iowa State, they were here to learn a few “Cyclone Skills”. The students filtered throughout our building exploring every floor (even the tiers!). They played chess, discovered study spaces, tried out study pods, and completed puzzles. They were home.

Since joining the library team on Aug. 1, I’ve visited with staff in many departments and units. While the work of library staff is remarkably diverse, their shared commitment to serving our community is constant. Their expertise, dedication, and passion for the mission of the library are truly inspiring. Through their efforts, they empower Iowa Staters to learn, create, and succeed, and their welcoming spirit makes this building a home away from home for our campus community. The University Library is in great hands.

My background in bringing people together, managing change, and fostering excellence in learning and teaching has prepared me well for service as interim dean of library services. 

As executive director of the Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching, I partner with educators to enhance learning in our community of scholars. Our units Iowa State Online, Instructor Development, and Course Design and Quality, provide support, consultation, and service to faculty throughout their career trajectory. I’ve been on the faculty at Iowa State since 2005. As a Morill Professor of apparel, events, and hospitality management, my research interests include the scholarship of teaching and learning and apparel industry history. 

I have long been a library patron and champion, and in my interim role, I look forward to advocating for the library’s people, spaces, and services. 

Thank you for your consistent support and collaboration as the library advances into its next century of service. Thanks to your partnership, we’ll inspire future leaders, support Iowa State scholarship, advance our land-grant mission, and maintain and grow our modern, relevant research library. 

With gratitude,

Sara Marcketti
Interim Dean of Library Services 
Assistant Provost and Executive Director of the Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching 
Morrill Professor