Two library teams partnered to challenge the assumption that college students don’t read and to amplify underrepresented voices through community-driven collections. By examining what students want to read and how they engage with library materials, the project revealed that this perception and the push to elevate diverse voices are deeply connected. This collaboration between the Student Learning and Engagement team and the Acquisitions team combines expertise in outreach, instruction, and collection development, supported by faculty, staff, and student employees.
The session will share strategies for selection, marketing, and data analysis that have improved collection visibility and usage. It will also highlight the essential contributions of student employees and how these projects benefit the libraries while preparing future professionals.
- Discover how cross-departmental collaboration can foster better relationships and innovative solutions.
- Learn how to leverage student knowledge to improve community-driven collections and services.
- Explore ideas for promoting growth, collaboration, and maintaining long-term partnerships for library projects.
Instructor(s)
Cindy Elliott is the Collection Management librarian and Unit Lead at the University of Arizona for Collection Services. Her team manages the acquisition of library materials, renewal of ongoing resources, assessment, and day-to-day budget operations. Cindy’s research interests include collection development and management, acquisitions, electronic resources management, and licensing.
Cheryl Gerken is the Course Content Initiatives Manager at the University of Arizona Libraries. She works with a team that supports students, instructors, and departments to promote and support course materials affordability on campus. As an avid reader and with a background in bilingual education and school librarianship, Cheryl recognizes the importance of reading to mental wellness and personal growth.
Shelley Peper is a Library Services Professional at the University of Arizona, where she supports student engagement through outreach, instruction, and programming. She works closely with graduate student employees to create inclusive, student-centered library experiences. Shelley is passionate about mentorship, cross-departmental collaboration, and challenging assumptions about how students engage with reading and academic libraries.
Beth Reese is a Library Services Professional, working with the Library Peer Information Consultants at the University of Arizona Libraries. Her own non-traditional path through higher education fuels her commitment to meeting students exactly where they are—and helping them get to where they want to go.