University Libraries recognized for outreach to local businesses

University Libraries Dean Jim Bracken and Associate
Professor Ken Burhanna hold up the IMMY award.
University Libraries received the award for its contributions
to local businesses.

On Nov. 16, the Kent Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2011 Tree City Awards and recognized Kent State University Libraries with an IMMY award for its contributions to local businesses. IMMYs are given to recognize top-quality businesses and individuals in the Kent area in support of economic retention, reinvestment and new facilities development.

Ken Burhanna and Christine Ughrin, both of University Libraries, and Joe Salem, formerly of University Libraries, contributed their time and expertise toward these successes. Burhanna, associate professor and head of instructional services, accepted the IMMY award at the event.

Recognizing the importance of entrepreneurial success and economic development in the Kent area, Kent State University Libraries Dean Jim Bracken and his business librarians have been reaching out to local businesses, development agencies and entrepreneurs to create partnerships for success.

Bracken says, “Remaining consistent with President Lefton’s strategic goals, we are connecting with the world beyond our campus as we continue to look for ways to help the community.” University Libraries has been providing local community members, business owners and entrepreneurs with community borrower access to, and assistance with, the vast information resources available within University Libraries. These resources can be accessed through training sessions and one-on-one research consultations.

University Libraries’ business librarians have worked with the Small Business Development Center in Kent to provide business owners with access to valuable market research for their business plans. This partnership has led to stronger applications to fund the launching of new ventures or expansion of growing businesses. Recently, University Libraries played a role in the successes of Anderson Aerospace, a local satellite communications firm.

For more information about the University Libraries’ partnership with local businesses, contact Burhanna at
330-672-1660 or kburhann@kent.edu.