In the inaugural edition of the ALAO Member Spotlight, we get to know ALAO President, Katy Kelly. Read on to hear Katy’s thoughts on the value, impact, and innovation in academic libraries… and the best way to celebrate a birthday!

What is your role(s) in academic libraries?

At University of Dayton Libraries I take the lead on promoting library services and resources in my role as coordinator of marketing and engagement. Every day I get to collaborate with my colleagues on planning, developing, and assessing programs, activities, and publications for the university community. I manage Roesch Library’s Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook accounts and chair the Libraries Marketing and Outreach Team. I also provide reference support, teach library one-shot instruction sessions, and serve as the liaison to the Department of Communication.

What do you like most about academic library work?

I like how the library is a central part of a university community and is open to everyone. I became an academic librarian because I used the library a lot in college (shout out to Alden Library at Ohio University!). Being at Alden helped me realize a new career path and strengthened my love for libraries and their mission.

What are some interesting projects you’ve been involved with lately?

I recently participated as a mentor of an experiential learning program that led 12 UD students to research and reimagine the role of the library. Their work resulted in Concourse D, a prototyped transdisciplinary project development studio. It was awesome to partner with my colleagues at UD’s Institute of Applied Creativity for Transformation (IACT) on this experience. Concourse D is currently included in the library renovation plans, and construction is expected to conclude in late summer 2019.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

I love karaoke but I am bad at singing. Every birthday I try to go somewhere for karaoke and my friends and family are good sports about it. For a recent milestone birthday I hired my favorite local karaoke host and held a #Katyoke party. My dad brought down the house with his rendition of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity,” and people are still talking about it. My go-to song is “Santeria” by Sublime or, with a willing partner, I can also do “Summer Nights” from Grease.

What do you love about being an ALAO member?

I love the variety of professional development opportunities organized by ALAO members. It’s always great to see the range of topics and expertise of presenters coordinated by our board members and interest groups. I get really excited for spring workshop season and for the annual conference.

-Katy Mathuews, Membership Chair, Ohio University