About Me
I am a dedicated public policy researcher and information science professional with a passion for understanding and improving public library funding. My research explores the intersection of political ideology, demographic factors, and perceived value of public libraries.
Currently serving as a Librarian at East Baton Rouge Public Library, I combine my academic expertise with hands-on experience to develop programs that serve diverse communities and promote information literacy.
Education
PhD in Public Policy
Southern University, Baton Rouge, LA
Dissertation: "An Analysis of Public Library Funding: Policy Implications for Democratic and Republican Library Districts"
MLIS in Library and Information Science
Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
BA in English Literature
Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA
Emphasis: British Literature
AA in Liberal Arts
Baton Rouge Community College, Baton Rouge, LA
Professional Experience
Librarian
May 2017 - PresentEast Baton Rouge Public Library
- Develop and present computer courses for library patrons
- Create lesson plans aligned with 21st century learning standards
- Receive patron and management performance reviews
- Promote information literacy and digital inclusion
Student Lecturer
Fall 2022 - Spring 2023Southern University
- Quantitative Methods & Research Methods
- Program Evaluation and Design
- Public Finance and Budgeting
- Policy Analysis
- Seminar on Issues of Race, Gender and Equity
Library Technician
Nov 2012 - May 2017East Baton Rouge Public Library
- Provided reference and reader advisory services
- Assisted patrons with research and information needs
- Supported library programming and community outreach
Research
An Analysis of Public Library Funding
Policy Implications for Democratic and Republican Library Districts
Key Findings
- Participants highly agreed that public libraries were valuable to society and that there was a need for increased public funding
- Persons perceiving greater political-social, moral-ethical, and utilitarian-instrumental value had higher perceived need for funding
- Persons aged 18-29 demonstrated higher perceived need for library funding
- Increase in political affiliation correlated with decreased perceived public value
Methodology
- Descriptive statistics analysis
- Multiple regression analysis revealing significant overall model
- Cross-sectional survey design
Other Research Projects
Teen Virtual Library Usability Experiment
Louisiana State University, Fall 2016
Tested hypothesis that simpler, better organized public library websites increase usability for young adults using MANOVA and ANOVA analysis.
Managing Change: School Libraries' Fight to Stay Relevant
Louisiana State University, Summer 2016
Reviewed challenges facing school librarians and proposed management solutions for the evolving educational landscape.
Publications
"An Analysis of Public Library Funding"
ProQuest Dissertations & Theses
"An Analysis of Public Library Funding"
The Information Revolution
"An Analysis of Public Library Funding"
Library and Information Science Database
Honors & Affiliations
Academic Honors
- Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society (2016)
- Chancellor's List (2012)
- Dean's List (2012)
- TOPS Scholarship Recipient
Professional Memberships
- American Society for Public Administration (2022-present)
- American Library Association (2016-present)
- Reference and User Services Association (2016-present)
- Louisiana State University Alumni Association (2012-present)
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