Category Archives: Peer-Reviewed Article

Ripples, bridges, and islands: Metaphorical observations on leadership

Peer-Reviewed Article, ,

by Samuel T. Barber
Associate Librarian
California State University, Fullerton

This article utilizes three metaphors (ripples, bridges, islands) to identify, describe, and explain three elements of leadership phenomena gleaned from personal experience and via the observation of others. Though to some extent representing personal insights, the citation of research from a range of multi-disciplinary literature attempts to add weight and relevance for a wider audience. It is anticipated that current and past leaders will identify with the phenomena when considering their own experiences. Future leaders, therefore, may also benefit from consideration of these factors before making their transition into a leadership realm.
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Creative library spaces: The future of the academic library makerspace

Peer-Reviewed Article, , ,

by Jean Bossart
Engineering Librarian
University of Florida
George A. Smathers Libraries
jean.bossart@ufl.edu

Abstract

Although makerspaces have been around for nearly 20 years, they are continually evolving to incorporate new technologies and practices in support of the creativity of their patrons. With the goal of identifying unique or emerging trends in makerspace offerings, a mixed methods investigation of current makerspace technologies was conducted at peer institution academic libraries which included online reviews of makerspace websites, site visits, and interviews with makerspace managers. Since there are over 6000 colleges and universities in the U.S., library makerspaces at universities with top ranked engineering programs were identified for this study. Eight makerspaces in eight different US states were visited. For comparison, four were library makerspaces and four were engineering department makerspaces. To keep making on an innovative trajectory and provide access to newly emerging technologies, interviews with makerspace managers were conducted and included questions regarding trends and innovative new makerspace tools and technologies. Incorporating the arts to foster creativity alongside technical skills was identified as a path to inclusivity and equitable access to maker education.

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Filling the Lacuna: The Ozarks Jewish Archives – A Piece of Ozarkiana and American Judaica

Peer-Reviewed Article

Anne M. Baker,
Head of Special Collections and Archives, Missouri State University

Mara W. Cohen Ioannides,
President of Midwest Jewish Studies Association

Abstract

“Filling the Lacuna” explores efforts to discover and preserve the Jewish history of the Missouri Ozarks. As late as the 1990s little was known about the Jewish story in the region. A research project exploring the role of women in the Jewish community brought home the need to preserve the archival record of the community. With support of Jewish leaders, Missouri State University founded the Ozarks Jewish Archives in 2004. Today the Archives holds records of the local synagogue, family papers, oral histories, photographs, and ephemera, adding to the story of a group not often associated with the Ozarks.

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Discovering the Dynamic World of Online Learning Librarians

Peer-Reviewed Article, , , , ,

Daniel E. Feinberg, Online Learning Librarian
Sarah Moukhliss, STEM Online Learning Librarian
Thomas G. Carpenter Library
University of North Florida

Abstract

Historically, the role of Online Learning Librarians (OLLs) has been ambiguously defined within the literature. This paper, authored by two OLL colleagues at the University of North Florida, aims to clarify the roles and perspectives of an OLL and a STEM OLL, thereby contributing to the clarity of their profession and the existing literature. The authors also explore key attributes that new professionals can develop to succeed in this dynamic role, addressing common questions posed by colleagues and faculty.

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We Have Glue and a Dream: A Case Study on Just for Fun Outreach at the Lemmen Library and Archives

Peer-Reviewed Article, , ,

Leigh Rupinski, Archivist for Public Services and Community Engagement
Katelyn Fletcher, Research Services Assistant
Grand Valley State University Libraries

Abstract

Although the archival field has come a long way towards making outreach a more integral function of archivist positions, it remains difficult to fully define and assess. Categories of outreach are broad, often focusing on time-consuming or budget-hefty projects such as exhibitions and workshops. Less has been written about “just for fun” outreach; the kinds of activities that center fun and joy with less immediate payoff in assessment and impact reports. However, they remain one of the only ways to engage the community with archival holdings outside of the Reading Room or classroom. It is through these more modest outreach efforts that archivists can reach further than traditional audiences and embrace the idea that archives are for everyone.

This case study will discuss three examples of how just for fun outreach in the Lemmen Library and Archives at Grand Valley State University has created a community-centered space that encourages students to interact with the archives, even if they are not actively researching with the holdings.

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