Amanda Nichols Hess

Amanda Nichols Hess headshot
Describe yourself in three words:

Proactive, dependable, flexible.

What are you reading (or listening to on your mobile device)?

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"The Fraud" by Zadie Smith, "The Breakway" by Jennifer Weiner, and "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett.

Describe ACRL in three words:

Relevant, collaborative, supported.

What do you value about ACRL?

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I have found tremendous value in the connecting opportunities that ACRL offers -- the formal conferences are unparalleled, the virtual learning opportunities, and the many committees that guide and direct the organization. I appreciate the opportunity to connect with my colleagues from different parts of the country (and sometimes the world) who work at different kinds of institutions than I do, and ACRL helps to make that happen. ACRL is also amazing in the staff resources it offers to committees and collaborators -- I have had the pleasure to work with several staff members (shout-outs to David Free, Kara Malenfant, and Erin Nevius in particular!) and it is amazing to have the professional-level staff support that ACRL provides.

What do you as an academic librarian contribute to your campus?

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Along with my librarian colleagues, I'm an essential partner in student success. I find that we tend to have broader views of learning at our institution than our colleagues in other academic departments, because we see -- and have to work with -- students across a wider range of academic experiences. Having this bigger-picture perspective provides us with starting points to make meaningful connections in support of students' learning and engagement.

In your own words

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When I first started out as a librarian, a mentor told me that no one day would ever be the same. Almost fifteen years later, that adage has been so true! I love the dynamic nature of my work as an academic librarian, especially in the ever-changing kinds of interactions that I have with students across their educational experiences. It keeps my professional life interesting, ensures my knowledge is up-to-date, and brings me tremendous gratification on a regular basis.

Credentials:she/her, PhD

Title:Coordinator of Instruction and Research Help

Workplace:Oakland University

Location:Rochester, MI