Natalie Woods (M.S. ’14, Information) was recognized with the “Keeper of the Flame” award by the Western Branch Library Support Association on March 18, 2025.

The award is presented to individuals who carry on the legacy of historian Mr. Walter Hutchins, “A dear friend who was always super supportive of me in my time as the manager of the Western Library,” Woods said.

Woods served as the Library Manager at the Western Branch Library for eight years before transitioning to her current role as Library Manager at the Parkland Library. “During my time at the Western Branch Library, I created a digitization project to help preserve all of the items in the archives there and I’m still heavily involved and will likely be until I retire,” Woods said. “I wanted to make sure that the history that is there is preserved for future generations and any barriers to the access of that information are removed by digitizing and placing it online.”

Throughout her career, Woods has organized large programs, such as the Western Library Block Party, a community event that connects patrons with resources in the community. She also rebranded the Cotter Cup Storytelling contest, a poetry writing contest for elementary, middle, and high school students in honor of poet and Professor Joseph Seamon Cotter, Sr.

“Everything about what I do is rewarding. Getting to help the community, staff and co-workers daily is truly an honor,” said Woods.

Having dedicated more than 35 years to the library profession, Woods credits her expertise to her education. “My time at Florida State University was critical in helping to shape my knowledge to do this work,” she said. “I learned so much from all of my professors during that time and I still stay in touch with several of them today.”