Kay P Maye
Describe yourself in three words:
Driven, goofy, critical.
What are you reading (or listening to on your mobile device)?
I'm currently reading Sky Full of Elephants by Cebo Campbell! A fun read with deep meaning.
Describe ACRL in three words:
Supportive, energizing, transformative.
What do you value about ACRL?
I value ACRL's ability to connect librarians from similar and different backgrounds and help transform the profession. I've met many research and project collaborators through committee work and the ACRL conference. These relationships have transformed not just my practice but also my professional efficacy. It is meaningful to connect with people who have the tenacity, professionalism, and kindness to bring about change.
What do you as an academic librarian contribute to your campus?
As an academic librarian at Tulane University, I provide research instruction to students and collection analysis support to my colleagues who select (and deselect/withdraw) resources across disciplines. This dual role gives me a chance to (1) engage students in conversations around critical information and data literacy and (2) use those same critical information and analysis skills to help our collectors make data-informed decisions. In this unique position, I hope to help university leaders see the value of a librarian's skillset. Many of us come from careers in other fields or have gained skills that are useful alongside our traditional library duties, providing an opportunity to reemphasize our role on campus and to transform how we're perceived by the larger academic community.
In your own words
Academic Librarianship is an ever-changing field that relies on the expertise of those committed to providing access to information for teaching, learning, and research. With this, librarians are gate-openers for those we serve and those impacted by our patrons and their research. It is my hope that the profession continues to evolve as information becomes more democratized, leading to future cost-friendly initiatives that prioritize people and knowledge over profit.
Pronouns:He/Him/His
Credentials:MIS
Title:Scholarly Engagement Librarian | Resource & Data Analyst
Workplace:Tulane University
Location:New Orleans, LA