Member of the Month

Cynorra Jackson – 04/2017

Cynorra is the Circulation Manager at Friends University (FTE: 1000-2000) in Wichita, KS. She has been a member of ACL since 2014. Follow Cynorra on Twitter @Cy1909.

Describe yourself using a book title: Great Expectations AND Sense and Sensibility

What’s the best thing about being a librarian? The best thing for me is helping the students find information. Because I believe that God has a purpose and plan for us all (to include occupations and vocations), I believe I play a vital role in the discovery of who they are and what God has called them do to. When they come to me for research assistance, to find a book, or for anything else, they are not simply getting information. They are taking steps toward their future. I love that I am a part of that process.

What are you currently reading? How to be a Professor, Visions of Vocation: Common Grace for the Common Good by Steven Carber, Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, and countless other books! I have a problem selecting just one.

Describe ACL in three words: Friendly / Educational / Uplifting

How have you, as an academic librarian, contributed to your campus? I currently contribute by being available for students. I assist my director with instruction of first-year and transfer students and reference help. As an added bonus, my office is known as the “judgement free zone.” Students who are having a hard time with the day can come in and talk to me, get prayer, a snack, or anything else that they may need.

I began my career as a librarian..​.at McConnell AFB in Wichita, KS. I am former military member, so working on an Air Force installation was ideal at the time. I had been involved in the book club at the base library. Because all of the librarians and other workers knew who I was, God showed me favor and blessed me with a job there after my interview. (Also, I was always on the late list!)

How were you introduced to ACL? My former director introduced me to ACL.

What do you value about ACL? I am thankful that there are a collective group of librarians and educators who love Jesus and we can worship and serve Him together!

How are you involved in ACL? I am in the Emerging Library Professionals group within ACL.

Do you have any specific interests in the library world? I have taken a new love of graphic novels over the past year.