Everett Hays

With a fervent dedication to education and a background as a middle-grade educator specializing in English Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies, I am deeply drawn to the world of librarianship. Throughout my four-year tenure, I've honed my skills in crafting engaging, standards-aligned lesson plans, maintaining a safe learning environment, and seamlessly transitioning to online platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic, garnering recognition from students and parents alike. My additional role as a middle school library associate underscored the transformative role of libraries in nurturing independent learning and creativity.

A commitment to inclusivity and empowerment propelled my pursuit of a master's degree in Library and Information Science, exemplified by my personal experiences as an openly gay individual in rural Indiana. Collaborating with seasoned librarians at Indiana University, including refining LibGuides and enhancing collections, further refined my expertise. My adaptable nature, collaborative spirit, and respect for diversity equip me to excel in dynamic environments.

For the past four years, I have served as a middle-grade educator, specializing in English Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies. My role involved crafting and implementing engaging, standards-aligned lesson plans, overseeing classroom management, including behavior strategies, fostering a safe learning environment, and maintaining open communication with both parents and administration. My adaptability shone during the COVID-19 pandemic when I adeptly transitioned my curriculum and teaching methodologies to an online platform, earning recognition from students and parents for my effective approach.

Beyond the classroom, I contributed as a middle school library associate, assuming the role of the school's librarian in the absence of the librarian. This experience highlighted the pivotal role that libraries play in empowering students to pursue independent learning and creative exploration, fostering an environment conducive to their growth.

My academic journey at Indiana University allowed me to collaborate and hone my skills in various aspects of library services. Working closely with Ilana Stonebraker, I enhanced the Economics Department's LibGuide by refining its usability, implementing organizational best practices, and ensuring timely and high-quality output. I also collaborated with Ilana on collections development and partnered with Jaci Wilkinson to create a months-long project to continue improving on IU’s research guides.

My educational background is anchored by a strong foundation in the fields of social studies education, history, and economics. I hold a bachelor's degree from Indiana State University, where I specialized in social studies education with focused concentrations in history and economics. This comprehensive program not only equipped me with the pedagogical skills essential for effective teaching but also delved deeply into the intricate nuances of history and economics, enabling me to engage with these subjects at an advanced level.

Additionally, I pursued a master's degree in Library and Information Science from Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). This academic journey further refined my expertise, enhancing my understanding of library services, information management, and resource accessibility. Through coursework and hands-on experiences, I honed my ability to navigate the evolving landscape of information and technology, preparing me to contribute effectively in the realm of librarianship.

My educational pursuits reflect a deliberate effort to combine my passion for education, history, and economics with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the field of library science. This multifaceted educational journey has not only provided me with a diverse skill set but also a comprehensive perspective that enables me to bridge the realms of education and library services seamlessly.