A librarian from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff has been recognized on the national stage for her research on the role of academic libraries in student success.
Shenise McGhee, who works at UAPB’s John Brown Watson Memorial Library, was selected as one of the top eight presenters in the country for the Empirical Studies in Libraries Summit, a national conference focused on advancing research in library and information science.
McGhee presented her research on March 26, titled “Assessment through Academic Libraries to Advance Student Success and Support the University’s Mission.” Her presentation examined how academic libraries contribute to student learning, engagement and overall institutional effectiveness.
Her study explores how library assessment practices can support key university goals, including student retention, graduation rates and academic achievement. The research incorporates multiple methods, such as instructional assessment, service usage data and program evaluation, to better understand how libraries can improve resources, instruction and student support.
McGhee’s work also highlights the importance of collaboration between libraries and faculty, as well as the role of information literacy in student success.
Conference organizers said the research provided valuable insight into how libraries serve as a central component of student achievement and institutional advancement.
The Empirical Studies in Libraries Summit brings together researchers, educators and practitioners from across the country to share innovative approaches to library science and its impact on communities.
McGhee’s study remains ongoing and continues to focus on how assessment practices can strengthen library services and support long-term institutional goals. Presenters at the summit may also have the opportunity to publish their research in an upcoming issue of a peer-reviewed academic journal.
