Kathryn E. Shenk
ALA Divisions:
Kind, creative, hopeful.
Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen! In celebration of Austen's 250th birthday, my goal is to read or re-read all of her novels throughout this year.
Innovative, foundational, learner-focused.
ACRL is a space where academic librarians can engage with the challenges of the profession to drive innovation, offer supportive connections, and to continually engage in professional development. ACRL's learning opportunities, whether in the form of webinars, conferences, or publications, have guided the evolution of my instructional practices.
As the Science & Math Librarian for the Biology and Chemistry & Biochemistry departments, I partner with students and faculty in manifold ways. I engage in regular outreach activities to my departments, collaborate with faculty in providing tailored information literacy instruction sessions, provide reference services, and build inclusive collections. I am passionate about journeying with students and faculty throughout the research lifecycle, which has led to exciting teaching opportunities that range from traditional lecture or seminar classes to science laboratories. I strive to be accessible to my students and faculty, so you will often find me offering pop-up-style office hours in my departments. My goal is to be a familiar face that is always ready to help (usually with a bowl of candy).
As an academic librarian, I am always learning. Whether I am assisting a faculty member with their research, or listening to a student gush about their laboratory findings, I find a teacher in everyone. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is to build on these interactions to facilitate a deeper learning experience, by connecting patrons with library resources or teaching information literacy skills. Lifelong learning is a journey that we all take together, one conversation at a time.
Title:Science & Math Librarian
Job Function:Liaison to Biology and Chemistry & Biochemistry
Workplace:James Madison University Libraries
Location:Harrisonburg, Virginia