Fostering Student Success: Academic, Social, and Financial Initiatives

Academic libraries are confronting a myriad of challenges, including consequences stemming from the pandemic, the changing demographics of student bodies, and the financial obstacles that many students are struggling to overcome. What’s needed is practical guidance on how to effectively serve students’ needs amidst rapid change. The contributors in this collection share several approaches to bolstering their success, with guidance that can be tailored to your own institution. Inside, you’ll learn about
 

• methods for reimagining learning and interactive programming during times of disruption;
• using technology to provide personalized support for vulnerable students, from free wifi hotspots to inclusive programing;
• promoting data skills through a makerspace;
• facilitating information access and STEAM learning for first-generation students;
• ensuring accessibility for rural community college students;
• responding to challenges brought about by systemic racism and COVID-19;
• impactful mentoring;
• expanding an open textbook program;
• supplying laptops for students through an academic/public library partnership; and
• paid internships and work/study positions for low-income students.

Sigrid Kelsey is director of scholarly publications at Louisiana State University. An award-winning librarian, she has coedited five books and written numerous articles. Kelsey has served on the ALA Publishing Committee and the American Libraries editorial advisory board. She is currently on the editorial board of Library Diversity and Residency Studies and is the general editor of Catholic Library World.