Linda is the Library Director at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, PA (2368 FTE). Linda has been an ACL member for 25 years.
Describe yourself using a book title: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (current covid environment and unexpected opportunities!)
What’s the best thing about being a librarian? Having such a variety of things I can learn, do, and share! As part of an academic community I have opportunities to collaborate with faculty and other departments, to attend stimulating presentations and author talks, to use assessment to make a difference for students, and to help create an inviting destination for connection and growth.
What are you currently reading? His Truth is Marching On: John Lewis and the Power of Hope by Jon Meacham. It is a moving portrait of civil rights icon and congressman John Lewis, demonstrating how his life characterized by biblical love and nonviolence contributed to a lasting legacy of courage, resilience, and hope.
Describe ACL in three words: Connections, Community, and Collaboration
How do you (or How have you), as an academic librarian, contribute to your campus? Serve as an advocate for OER and library-licensed material (zero cost textbooks), participate in aspects of institutional strategic planning in the area of digital citizenship, developed a new Bridge to Freedom Children’s Collection and space, provide first-year experience information literacy and assessment, and continue to provide events and displays that promote student engagement and institutional values and themes (such as hosting the Human Library event).
One thing I wish I had known as a beginning librarian… The art of connecting, listening, and developing relationships with many types of people and how to find win-win ways of working together. I have developed these skills on my own (and I think it is part of my personality/skill set) but not understanding the importance of these interpersonal skills can hinder effective collaboration.
What do you value about ACL? The community that continues to thrive online and in-person with the discussion list and the annual/virtual conference. I’ve developed true friends over the years! The monthly devotionals and member highlights as well as the consistent and faithful prayer support of the Spiritual Encouragement Team make this group a very personal and supportive association. And if I ever need a quick poll or answer for a library question, members on the discussion group are exceptionally helpful and respond quickly!
How were you introduced to ACL? Georgi Bordner worked with me and recommended that I attend the annual conference.
How are you or have you been involved in ACL? I am currently on the Nominations Team and the CLC Team. Previously, I have served on the ACL Board as President for two terms and have enjoyed the Liberal Arts section lightning talks to get new ideas to implement. And I have not missed a single conference since I joined in 1997! They are rich times of connection and professional development.
Do you have any specific interests in the library world? The evolving world of open access, OER, and creative commons opportunities and the impact of online learning and social media on how students find information/news and do research.