Carol Hunter, interim vice provost for university libraries and university librarian at University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill, sent the e-mail message below to all library staff on February 3, 2017.
From: Carol Hunter
To: UNC Libraries staff
Sent: Friday, February 3, 2017 10:42 AM
Subject: [aalstaff] Message to our staff
Colleagues,
I hope you have seen both the message from Chancellor Folt and the resolution of the Faculty Executive Committee regarding the President’s executive orders of January 27.
Many of you have spoken with me about these statements, and about your own questions, hopes, and concerns. I am reminded every day what a committed, thoughtful, and diverse staff we are fortunate to work with here in the Library.
In these last few days, I have been rereading the mission, vision, and guiding principles that we adopted together as part of our strategic plan.
Our mission reminds me of the unique role that we are privileged to play as a library. At a time when people are seeking information, a comfortable place to gather their thoughts or join with friends, and supportive and friendly assistance, we are here for all members of our community.
Our principles, including the commitment to “foster a diverse environment that is marked by integrity, inclusiveness, and respect,” guide us in our interactions with the public and with one another.
I hope you will join me in reflecting on these core values, along with the Diversity Statement that appears on our Library website. They reaffirm that the work we do here is important. People count every day on UNC’s libraries and I am proud that we have pledged to be here for them as a valued cornerstone of our community and as an organization dedicated to inquiry and learning.
Some of you have also asked me if, as state employees, you are permitted to engage in activities such as calling legislators, writing letters to the editor, and expressing your opinions on your personal social media. The answer is yes, this is all permitted; you do not give up these rights because of your employment here. Please refer to the University’s “Limitations on Political Activities” and “Reminders About University Employees and Political Activities” for guidance.
Finally, if you have questions or concerns that you find impact your work or your workplace experience, I would like to remind you that Doug Diesenhaus, our Interim Director of Human Resources, is a confidential resource for you. The University also makes available the Employee Assistance Program, the University Ombuds Office, and, for those with travel and visa questions, the knowledgeable staff at UNC Global. If you know or encounter students in need of support, whether as members of our staff or as patrons, please encourage them to contact Campus Health Services or the Ombuds Office.
With warmest regards,
Carol
Carol Hunter
Interim Vice Provost for University Libraries and University Librarian
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
