Tara Coleman named associate dean for collections, technology and innovation at K-State Libraries
Kansas State University Libraries has appointed Tara Coleman as associate dean for collections, technology and innovation, following her successful service as interim associate dean. In the permanent role, Coleman joins the Libraries' senior leadership team, providing strategic oversight for research collections, digital infrastructure and innovation.
Coleman will lead efforts to acquire, steward and provide access to research and teaching resources in all formats. Her responsibilities include acquisitions and resource management, content development, library information technology services, the Sunderland Foundation Innovation Lab and the Open Publishing Exchange. She will serve on the Libraries' administrative team and Strategic Leadership Council.
"Tara brings a rare combination of strategic thinking, inclusive spirit and collaborative leadership," said James Wiser, dean of K-State Libraries. "Her approach is centered on the success of K-State's students, faculty and staff."
A K-State alumna, Coleman earned her bachelor's degree in English from the university and holds a Master of Library and Information Studies from the University of Oklahoma. In 2025, she earned an executive certificate in higher education leadership from the Harvard University Graduate School of Education.
Coleman serves on the board of trustees for the Manhattan Public Library and, in 2023, received the American Library Association's I Love My Librarian Award. She was recognized for her leadership of K-State's campuswide reading initiative, K-State First Book.
"I'm excited to continue in this role and help the Libraries think boldly about how collections, technology and scholarly publishing can better serve our students, faculty and Kansas communities," Coleman said.
Her appointment is part of a broader administrative realignment supporting the Next-Gen K-State vision. Under the updated structure, Laurel Littrell will continue as associate dean for research, education and engagement, while Katy Bach will oversee library user services, facilities, finance and human resources. Wiser will continue to supervise communications and marketing.
"This realignment reflects how we see our role at K-State. We are outward-facing and forward-moving, with an emphasis on campus first, peer libraries alongside Kansas and us always," said Wiser. "Our work is strongest when we are deeply embedded in teaching and research, connected to the best ideas across the profession and committed to serving the people of this state. This leadership team is built to do exactly that."
— Submitted by Ashley Nietfeld