Carolyn Brodie, ALSC President

(Photo Credit: Gary Harwood)

About me:

I am fortunate to work in an environment where the school and college administration highly value youth services librarianship and school librarianship. Over the last couple of decades we have watched our program grow in many directions as we have educated new librarians who are dedicated to creating a better future for children through libraries.

For the past 23 years, as a professor and administrator in the Kent State University School of Library and Information Science, I have focused on teaching, research and service. As a teacher, over the years our children’s librarianship graduate coursework has developed and changed while always centered on the ALSC Competencies for Librarians Serving Youth in Public Libraries.

As a researcher, I have written professional books, book chapters, and many articles related to children’s and school library services and I have been a partner in numerous grant projects that have led to scholarships, continuing education opportunities, facilities construction and publications. Through service, I have been active at the university, state and national levels with many responsibilities, but always as an advocate for youth services.

I began my teaching career in Arkansas as a second grade teacher in the classroom next door to my mom. She instilled in me a lifelong dedication to teaching and a love for children’s books that will continue all of my life. Prior to moving to the Midwest, I was also a junior high/senior high English teacher and high school librarian in England, Arkansas and an elementary school librarian in Garland, Texas.

My education includes a BSE in English and Library Science and an MSE in Educational Media from the University of Central Arkansas, a MLS from George Peabody College for Teachers of Vanderbilt University and a MEd in School Administration and PhD in Library Science from Texas Woman’s University. I have also been the recipient of countless continuing education experiences provided through ALA, ALSC, AASL, YALSA and other divisions that have expanded and strengthened my knowledge of librarianship over the past 25 years of membership.

Looking forward to this year as ALSC President, that is sure to be full exciting opportunities, interesting challenges and much promise!