Melissa Mallon
ALA Divisions:
ALA Roundtables:
Empathetic, curious, authentic
I always like to keep a couple of books going at one time - it keeps things interesting! I am close to finishing Witchcraft for Wayward Girls (by Grady Hendrix) - which is a super fun read; I'm just about to start The Caring University (by Dr. Kevin McClure), which is giving me hope for the future; and finally, I've really appreciated reading the in-depth reporting in WIRED magazine, which I'm fortunate to have access to through the Nashville Public Library.
Collaborative, intentional, affirming
I am so appreciative of ACRL for so many reasons. I have been a member for close to 20 years now, and can honestly say I've never once questioned the value of maintaining my membership. ACRL provides so many opportunities to connect with colleagues across the globe, giving librarians of all types and career-levels the chance to share their expertise and guide the future of our profession. From committee service to conference presentations to publishing with ACRL, there is a niche for everyone. I truly value the friends I have made and the professional service opportunities I have been able to engage in through the association. ACRL staff, elected officials, and volunteers are kind, helpful, and approachable, and I encourage academic librarians - especially early in your career - to consider joining this impactful organization.
Throughout my career, I have always been passionate about positioning the library as a key leader in advancing teaching & learning on campus. In my current role, that advocacy takes the form of championing the amazing library staff that I work with -- from their dedication to student success to their thoughtfulness in helping faculty navigate the integration of AI into their teaching & research to their enthusiasm in designing multimodal learning opportunities for students, our library staff are so important to helping the University achieve its mission and goals. I am delighted that my administrative role allows me to tell their stories and shine a light on the impactful work they are doing across campus and beyond.
In times of uncertainty and anxiety, I believe academic libraries should step up for their communities, providing a space that fosters belonging, builds community, and advances truth and dialogue. Academic librarians have an obligation to our students, our faculty and staff, and the communities surrounding our institutions to help them build the critical thinking skills needed to navigate the world we live in. It's a big, even overwhelming, task at times, but I am hopeful that if we continue to stay true to the values of our profession and prioritize working collaboratively, we can make it through uncertainty stronger than ever.
Pronouns:she/her
Credentials:MLIS
Title:Associate University Librarian for Teaching & Learning
Workplace:Vanderbilt University
Location:Nashville, TN