Dr. Nichols Hess has a uniquely broad view of the ways in which our expectations of academic librarian instruction are changing as long-held standards are rejected in favor of frameworks and the rigors of traditional standards and practices are exchanged in favor of more fluid information literacy–based learning objectives. . . . Amanda Nichols Hess’s work with transformative learning theory reveals a more dynamic and diverse landscape of transformation taking place in the journeys of those same librarians that is far more likely to be initiated by a change in leadership or classroom experience than by the adoption of a theory or implementation of a framework.

College & Research Libraries

At a time when it is crucial that librarians see themselves as educators, Hess has enhanced our capacity to improve professional development with this unique and ground-breaking study of how academic librarians’ perceptions of their identity as teachers can be transformed. Illuminating interviews and concise takeaways are designed to be put to good use by librarians, library leaders, and educators.

Sharon Mader, Dean Emeritus, University of New Orleans Library

Grounded in theory and mixed methods research, Transforming Academic Library Instruction includes practical advice for academic librarians, at all stages of their career, who are reflecting on their roles as educators. Library leaders and educators will also gain insight into how they can encourage librarians’ professional development and transformation growth.

Nancy Fawley, Director of Information & Instruction Services, University of Vermont