Some faculty and students at Wichita State University are upset that Ablah Library discarded thousands of physical materials without notifying faculty or considering alternatives. Library Dean Brent Mai said the decision followed standard guidelines and aimed to free up space as the library shifts to digital resources. Materials removed included outdated or rarely used items, though some discarded documents, like historical research notes, raised concerns about transparency and value.

Faculty from departments like English and history criticized the lack of communication, arguing that important resources were thrown away without input from subject experts. Mai acknowledged faculty were not consulted, saying it was the library’s responsibility to manage collections. While some universities offer materials to faculty before discarding them or post their deaccessioning policies online, WSU has not done so.

Faculty and students said the situation highlights broader concerns about the library’s mission, communication, and the importance of maintaining access to physical materials for research and discovery. Mai said he plans to meet with faculty to discuss the issue further.