This book provides real-world advice and ideas drawn from case studies to help academic libraries support students academically, socially, and financially, especially those who are facing barriers.
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 programming;
- 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.
Industry Reviews
"Kelsey includes a who's who of current library trends and topics, noting how these services are mission driven and align with the tenets of student success for institutions. Contributing librarians share their experiences with makerspaces, first-generation STEM support, information privilege, remote learning, textbook affordability, and paid internships, among other topics, noting correlations between their offerings and student achievement ... Good for future and current library practitioners, higher education administrators, and student success professionals."
-- Choice
"The book develops a narrative that engages the reader through the initiatives and collaborations of libraries from a variety of institutions. The stories focus on varied topics including accessibility, information literacy, research and learning services, technology, inclusion, and financial support ... The most important theme within this collection of narratives is how students are placed in the forefront of their own education. Yes, we all experience challenges within the institutions we work in. However, Fostering Student Success makes certain that we as administrators, faculty, and staff remember that ultimately, we are in this profession to walk alongside students, hear their voices, and respond with initiatives that bring these narratives into focus."
-- Journal of New Librarianship
"Vulnerable student groups are the focus of many of the chapters--that is, students who may have challenges such as racism, childcare difficulties, financial problems, or other barriers to overcome. These vulnerable populations, according to the American College Health Association, include Black, Latinx, Native American and First Nation, Asian American, first-generation low-income, LGBTQ+, international students, unauthorized students, disabled students, and any number of intersectional groups. These students have been identified as being especially affected by the pandemic ... It may seem daunting to try to address the potential issues that these students may be coping with. Fortunately, the contributing authors provide a wealth of suggestions and solutions."
-- College & Research Libraries
