Ruth retired last month as the Director of Library Services at Trevecca Nazarene University (FTE: 3,417) in Nashville, TN. She has been a member of ACL for 18 years.
Describe yourself using a book title: Introvert Power: Why Your Inner Life Is Your Hidden Strength by Laurie A Helgoe
What’s the best thing about being a librarian? Helping people find answers!
What are you currently reading? Why Me?: A Doctor looks at the Book of Job by Diane M.Komp
Describe ACL in three words: Professionals, Fellowship, Learning
How do you (or How have you), as an academic librarian, contribute to your campus? Academic librarians promote learning outside the classroom. We also support preservation of knowledge. Since we don’t give students a grade (very often), we can have a different kind of relationship with them than most other teaching faculty. Finally, I have found that on academic committees, I am trusted to be unbiased my decision-making, because the library represents all academic areas.
I began my career as a librarian . . . at a Christian college, and believe that Christian higher education is my “mission field.” College students are trying to understand God’s calling on their lives, and are trying to make important life decisions. It’s an ideal time to be a mentor, advisor, and listening ear as you help them hear God’s voice.
What do you value about ACL? I have participated in several other professional library associations. The level of community, of common goals, and the quality of relationships in ACL is unsurpassed. Plus, the expertise and professional knowledge is phenomenal.
How were you introduced to ACL? I knew about ACL, but I was really introduced when we hosted the conference in 2002. From then on, I was hooked!!
How are you or have you been involved in ACL? I have served in the Liberal Arts Section and in the Mentoring program. I have also presented sessions at conferences.
Do you have any specific interests in the library world? Leadership development, and the effect of technology on learning.