Melissa Gustafson has been named University Librarian at Indiana State University, effective immediately. The search process confirmed strong support for her leadership, both from her colleagues in Cunningham Memorial Library and from members of the Provost’s Advisory Council. She has already had a positive impact on library operations and culture and will continue providing strategic leadership to advance the library’s work in supporting students and faculty.
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Christopher Olsen said, “I am thrilled to have Melissa continue into the permanent role as University Librarian. She has a wealth of experience in the field and a successful track record here at Indiana State University. I am confident that Melissa will lead the Cunningham Memorial Library forward with passion and vision, and with a clear focus on student and faculty success. In the past few months as Interim University Librarian, she’s exhibited exceptional leadership skills working with faculty, staff, and students. Thank you, Melissa, and congratulations!”
Gustafson has been part of Indiana State for the past decade, serving in a variety of roles including Chair of the Cunningham Memorial Library Faculty, Head of Library Technical Services, and Associate Librarian for Collections Strategy & Copyright. She is also recognized across campus as a leader in Open Educational Resources (OER) and copyright education, spearheading ISU’s OER initiatives and serving as the university’s Intellectual Property Officer.
Beyond her work at Indiana State, Gustafson contributes to the academic library profession as a published scholar and through service with organizations such as the Journal of Copyright in Education and Libraries and the Academic Libraries of Indiana. Her efforts reflect a career-long commitment to student success, sustainable resource management, and expanding access to high-quality instructional materials.
As University Librarian, Gustafson will continue to advocate for Cunningham Memorial Library and the essential role it plays in advancing the university’s mission.