Jennilyn Wiley, a seasoned librarian with a background in business and accounting, has been appointed head librarian of the Missouri School of Journalism’s Journalism Library. She will oversee a historic collection that includes over 30,000 print books, the world’s largest academic photojournalism archive, and a 4,000-volume journalism fiction collection.

Wiley brings diverse experience from roles in auditing, software training, and academic librarianship, most recently serving at Auburn University. Her expertise in data analysis, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary research positions her to lead the library into a new era of “knowledge management.”

Dean David Kurpius and Vice Provost Kara Whatley praised Wiley’s unique skill set and commitment to supporting students and faculty. Wiley, who holds a doctorate in communication and information from Kent State, says her lifelong connection to libraries inspired her career shift. She emphasizes the growing importance of libraries in the age of generative AI, where access to reliable, scholarly resources is more critical than ever.

Visit the School of Journalism’s announcement for more information.

Have you ever wished for a master list of “those things”—sorted twelve different ways, cross-listed, and checked for duplication? So have we. And thanks to Mariah Newton at the Zalk Veterinary Medical Library, that wish is becoming reality.

Mariah, Library Specialist Sr., recently created a comprehensive spreadsheet mapping the Veterinary Medical Library’s reserve collection. This wasn’t just a list—it was a data-rich tool that captured which textbooks are used in which courses, by which instructors, in what formats, and how frequently. Her work unexpectedly launched a curriculum mapping project, giving the library team a powerful resource to analyze instructional periods, identify overlapping materials, and explore cost-saving opportunities.

This data also opens the door to deeper conversations with faculty and stakeholders about integrating library instruction at key points in the curriculum—ensuring students graduate as information-literate veterinarians. Future additions to the map will include textbook edition updates, faculty assignments, and connections to student organizations like SAVMA and journal clubs.

The Missouri Library Association (MLA) has named Jill Kline, student success librarian at the Mizzou Libraries, as the recipient of this year’s Outstanding New Librarian Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates early-career librarians who have made significant contributions to advancing library and information services in Missouri.

Since joining Mizzou two years ago, Jill has made a remarkable impact on student engagement and academic success. Through instructional sessions and campuswide events, she has reached thousands of students, helping them navigate library resources with confidence. Her efforts have led to the development of innovative learning tools and the acquisition of grant funding to support a new well-being book collection.

Jill’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the university. She has presented at regional conferences, including the Missouri Library Association annual conference, and her instructional sessions consistently receive high praise—more than 95% of surveyed students reported they are more likely to use library tools thanks to her guidance.

Her outreach includes leading sessions for middle and high school students and co-developing a new graduate-level library workshop. Jill also serves on university-wide committees focused on first-generation student success and AI literacy, further demonstrating her dedication to inclusive and forward-thinking education.

Congratulations to Jill Kline for her outstanding achievements and for setting a high standard for the future of librarianship in Missouri.

Missouri Library Association Awards Press Release