Nancy S. Kirkpatrick: A Leader in Library and Information Science
Exploring the Career and Contributions of a Prominent Library Dean
Nancy S. Kirkpatrick is a distinguished figure in the field of library and information science, known for her leadership roles and dedication to advancing library services. With a background in law and extensive experience in library administration, she has made significant contributions to academic libraries and library consortia.
Key Highlights of Nancy S. Kirkpatrick's Career
- Current Role: Dean of University Libraries at Florida International University (FIU).
- Previous Leadership: Served as Executive Director and CEO of OhioNet, a prominent library consortium.
- Diverse Background: Holds advanced degrees in both law and library science, bringing a unique perspective to her work.
Journey to Librarianship
Nancy S. Kirkpatrick's path to becoming a leader in the library world is marked by a diverse educational and professional background. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Drake University, a Juris Doctor from the School of Law at the University of Richmond, and a Master of Science in Library and Information Science from the iSchool at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her early career included practicing non-profit law and advocacy, which provided her with a strong foundation in public service and organizational management. This unique combination of legal expertise and library science knowledge has informed her innovative approach to library leadership.
From Law to Libraries: An Evolving Career
Initially, Kirkpatrick considered a career as a law librarian, leveraging her legal background. However, opportunities led her to academic librarianship. She served as the Director of Library Services at Marian University, where she gained valuable experience in managing library operations and services within an academic setting. This role proved to be a pivotal step in her transition to library leadership.
Leadership in Library Consortia
A significant portion of Nancy S. Kirkpatrick's career has been dedicated to leading library consortia. Prior to her current role at FIU, she served as the Executive Director and CEO of OhioNet. During her nearly five-year tenure at OhioNet, she was responsible for leading a multitype library consortium that supported a diverse membership across Ohio and the surrounding region. Her work at OhioNet involved strategic planning, resource sharing, and advocating for the needs of member libraries.
Driving Collaboration and Innovation at OhioNet
As the head of OhioNet, Kirkpatrick focused on fostering collaboration among different types of libraries. She played a key role in initiatives aimed at improving access to resources, implementing new technologies, and providing professional development opportunities for library staff. Her leadership helped OhioNet to effectively serve its members and adapt to the evolving landscape of library services.
Leading the Libraries at Florida International University
In Fall 2023, Nancy S. Kirkpatrick assumed the role of Dean of University Libraries at Florida International University (FIU) in Miami. In this capacity, she oversees the strategic direction and operations of the university libraries. This includes managing a substantial budget and leading a large team of faculty, staff, and student employees across two campuses. Her focus at FIU is on transforming the libraries into a modern, innovative, and user-centered operation that supports the academic and research needs of the university community.
Vision for FIU Libraries
As Dean, Kirkpatrick is dedicated to enhancing the role of FIU Libraries as vital hubs for learning, research, and engagement. Her vision includes leveraging technology to improve access to information, developing innovative programs and services, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all users. She is committed to ensuring that the libraries are responsive to the evolving needs of students and faculty in a rapidly changing information landscape.
Students engaging with resources in a library setting, representing the environment fostered under strong library leadership.
Professional Affiliations and Contributions
Nancy S. Kirkpatrick is actively involved in various professional associations and initiatives within the library and information science field. She is a Lifetime Member of the American Library Association (ALA) and has served on several ALA committees, including the Spectrum Advisory Committee and the Diversity Research Grants Committee. Her involvement in these organizations reflects her commitment to the broader library community and her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within the profession.
Advocacy and Engagement
Kirkpatrick is a strong advocate for the value of libraries and the importance of access to information. She has been a vocal supporter of open scholarship and its potential to advance equity in librarianship and higher education. Her engagement in professional organizations and her willingness to share her expertise through presentations and publications highlight her dedication to the advancement of the field.
Skills and Expertise
Nancy S. Kirkpatrick possesses a diverse skill set that contributes to her effectiveness as a library leader. Her background in law provides her with a strong understanding of legal and ethical issues relevant to libraries, such as intellectual property and privacy. Her extensive experience in library administration has honed her skills in strategic planning, financial management (including overseeing a significant budget at FIU), and organizational leadership. Additionally, she holds certifications in Human Centered Design and Creating Workplace Wellbeing, and has completed coursework in Appreciative Inquiry and Conversations Worth Having, indicating her interest in applying these concepts to improve library services and work environments.
A Blend of Legal Acumen and Library Innovation
Her ability to combine legal acumen with a deep understanding of library operations and a commitment to innovative approaches makes her a highly effective leader. She is adept at navigating complex organizational structures, managing resources efficiently, and fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
Recognitions and Honors
Throughout her career, Nancy S. Kirkpatrick has received recognition for her contributions to the library profession. As an ALA Spectrum Scholar, she was part of a program that supports graduate education for students from underrepresented groups pursuing careers in library and information science. This honor reflects her potential for leadership and her commitment to diversity within the field.
Publications and Presentations
Nancy S. Kirkpatrick has contributed to the professional literature through her writing. She has authored chapters in books related to library worker engagement and careers in library and information services, sharing her insights and experiences with a wider audience. She is also a sought-after speaker, delivering presentations at conferences and events on topics ranging from library leadership to innovative library practices.
Sharing Knowledge and Shaping the Future
Her contributions to publications and presentations demonstrate her commitment to sharing knowledge and contributing to the ongoing professional development of librarians and library staff. By sharing her experiences and perspectives, she helps to shape discussions about the future of libraries and the skills needed to succeed in the profession.
Summary of Key Roles and Experiences
The following table provides a summary of some of Nancy S. Kirkpatrick's key roles and experiences:
| Role | Organization | Dates (Approximate) | Key Responsibilities/Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dean of University Libraries | Florida International University (FIU) | Fall 2023 - Present | Overseeing library operations, budget management, strategic planning, leading staff and faculty. |
| Executive Director and CEO | OhioNet | ~2018 - 2023 | Leading a multitype library consortium, fostering collaboration, resource sharing. |
| Director of Library Services | Marian University | Prior to 2018 | Managing library services in an academic setting. |
| Board Member | Open Library Foundation | Current | Contributing to the governance of an organization supporting open source library projects. |
| Chair, Members Council on Library Services | Florida Virtual Campus (FLVC) | Current | Leading a council focused on library services within the Florida Virtual Campus. |
Personal Philosophy and Interests
Nancy S. Kirkpatrick's work is guided by a philosophy that emphasizes human-centered approaches and the importance of creating positive and engaging environments. Her interest in concepts like Appreciative Inquiry and Creating Workplace Wellbeing reflects her belief in the power of positive psychology and human connection in driving success and innovation. She is passionate about using libraries to advance equity and access to information for all.
Impact and Legacy
Through her leadership roles at OhioNet and FIU, as well as her involvement in professional organizations, Nancy S. Kirkpatrick has had a significant impact on the library community. She has been instrumental in driving collaborative initiatives, advocating for the value of libraries, and fostering innovation in library services. Her dedication to mentorship and her focus on creating positive work environments have also influenced the careers of many library professionals. As she continues her work at FIU, her leadership will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of the university libraries and contribute to the broader landscape of library and information science.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nancy S. Kirkpatrick
What is Nancy S. Kirkpatrick's current role?
Nancy S. Kirkpatrick currently serves as the Dean of University Libraries at Florida International University (FIU).
What is her background before entering librarianship?
Before her career in libraries, Nancy S. Kirkpatrick practiced non-profit law and advocacy.
Which library consortium did she lead?
She served as the Executive Director and CEO of OhioNet.
What are her areas of expertise?
Her expertise includes library administration, strategic planning, budget management, non-profit law, human-centered design, and creating workplace wellbeing.
What is her educational background?
She holds a BA in Journalism, a JD from the University of Richmond School of Law, and an MS in Library and Information Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
References
Last updated May 16, 2025