School of Information alumna Dr. Amelia Anderson was selected for the 2024-2025 ALISE Connie Van Fleet Award for Research Excellence in Public Library Services to Adults.
The award recognizes an individual for research contribution in the field of public library services to adults, including special adult populations such as people with disabilities, minority groups, and older adults.
“I’m honored to be awarded the ALISE Connie Van Fleet Award as the award recognizes research excellence,” said Anderson. “I’m grateful to be able to continue work that focuses on improving services for library patrons.”
After earning both her Master of Library and Information Science and her Ph.D in Information Studies from Florida State University, she launched her career as a branch librarian, laying the foundation for her current work. “From research assistance to reader’s advisory to program planning–I loved searching for answers to complicated reference questions, locating the perfect book for a patron in need, and hosting book clubs,” said Anderson.
This recognition may be attributed to her work to help librarians provide more inclusive services and environments. Her role as managing co-principal investigator on an Institute of Museum and Library Services grant focused on enhancing accessibility in public library maker spaces. Additionally, she recently conducted a study on how public libraries celebrate Autism Acceptance Month.
As an assistant professor of Library and Information Science at the University of South Florida, she explores trends in the field through original research. “It is exciting work, and I especially enjoy qualitative work that allows me to speak directly with practicing librarians,” she shared. “I also love being able to work with graduate students in my classes. I am so inspired by their passion for the field, creativity, and intellectual drive.”
Anderson advises aspiring librarians to gain as much library experience as possible before graduating. “Make connections – networking is so valuable! And try out different roles within different types of libraries before you are actually on the job hunt. You never know what might end up really speaking to you, despite your initial career path plans,” she offered.