The Arkansas Library Association awarded Shenise McGhee the 2024 Suzanne Spurrier Academic Librarian Award.
McGhee is a librarian at the John Brown Watson Memorial Library at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. She was recognized at the Arkansas Library Association Annual Conference Awards Banquet on Oct. 5 at the Hot Springs Convention Center.
During the conference, she also delivered a presentation on “How Artificial Intelligence Impacts Academic Libraries and Library Outcome of Information Literacy,” discussing the implications of AI on teaching information literacy skills in higher education and K-12 environments.
“This award recognizes an outstanding academic librarian in Arkansas who exemplifies the spirit of exceptional service, dedication, and professionalism,” according to a news release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
First awarded in 2001, this award is named in honor of Suzanne Spurrier, director of the Brackett Library at Harding University from 1990-1998.
“The annual ArLA award celebrates librarians who embody the qualities of Suzanne Spurrier, including a commitment to serving library patrons, a devotion to the library profession, and active participation in library associations at the state, regional, or national level,” according to the release.
Messhirya Harris, a UAPB student majoring in agriculture business, applauded McGhee’s award.
“Ms. McGhee’s outstanding service to student success, community service, and unwavering dedication to providing resources, guidance, and support had made a profound impact on my academic journey. I am proud of her accomplishments,” Harris said.
McGhee actively works with students, serving as an advisor for two student organizations.
“With 16 years of experience in academic librarianship, McGhee is dedicated to enhancing student success through innovative library programs, including the UAPB Library Study Hall Program. Her work has had a significant impact on student success. She actively engages with the campus community through initiatives such as the Annual Back to School Supplies Giveaway and supporting nursing students with clinical uniforms,” according to the release.
Lynn Valetutti, director of the library and LMS departments at National Park College in Hot Springs, acknowledged McGhee’s efforts.
“Shenise’s dedication to intellectual freedom and advocacy within the library community is truly inspiring,” said Valetutti. “Her extensive involvement with these committees demonstrates a profound commitment to promoting access and equity in information services.”
McGhee’s commitment to the American Library Association is demonstrated through her work on the ALA Joint Digital Content Working Group and Interpretations of the Library Bill of Rights. She has been involved with various committees, including serving as a past board member and chair of the Intellectual Freedom Committee for the Arkansas Library Association. She has also held significant roles with the ALA Advocacy and Policy Committee for the American Library Association Legislation Representative and ex-officio member, ALCTS Association for Library Collections member, ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom Committee member, Chair for Gerald Hodges Intellectual Freedom Chapter Relations Award Committee and the Black Caucus of the American Library Association.
McGhee’s influence in the field of librarianship extends beyond her professional roles. Her research interests span intellectual freedom, open educational resources, assessment and information literacy instruction.
She holds a Master of Science in Library Science, two Graduate Academic Certificates in Advanced Management in Libraries and Information Agencies and Digital Content Management from the University of North Texas and a second Master of Science in Higher Education from Walden University.
Her work has been published in several journals, including the Arkansas Library Journal, Texas Library Journal and Library Journal. She has also been a reviewer for the Journal of New Librarianship.