Celebrated as a center for community and engagement at Southern University, our esteemed John B. Cade Library was awarded the prestigious LOUIS Users Conference Library of the Year Award 2024. The LUC presents this annual award in acknowledgment of a facility’s commitment to accessibility, community service, academic support, increased usage, innovation, and leadership. On behalf of Southern University, various presenters gathered at Pennington Jr. Conference Center October 9-10.
In addition to personal study rooms and a detailed database outlining virtual resources, John B. Cade Library has spent the last year introducing collaborative digital workspaces which offer hands-on learning opportunities across various fields of study. The library’s triumph reflects its focus on student excellence and array of learning services. Dr. Dawn V. Knight, Dean of Library, acclaimed her team’s accomplishments. “Our team remains committed to fostering an inclusive, resource-rich environment that not only supports the academic success of our students and faculty.”
By expanding its collection to include digital resources, accessible learning materials, and multilingual publications, the library has ensured that its resources are available to all students, regardless of background or learning style. Following the launch of the facility’s workshop series covering academic skills, research methods, and digital literacy, Quiana Wright, Associate Professor/ Reference Librarian expresses her excitement for what’s left to come. Humbly acknowledging the award, Wright adds, “This recognition truly reflects the dedication and passion of our team and it’s a privilege to be a part of it.”
The LUC Conference Library of the Year Award recognizes institutions that excel not only in resource availability but also in community involvement. “The overall winning of the award is a testimony of the library’s commitment to excel and is vital in the community.” Vanissa Gosserand, Associate Professor/ Reference Librarian.
In anticipation of hosting the 10th Annual HBCU Library Alliance Membership Meeting from October 27-29, library staff and ambassadors participated in various initiatives and conversations surrounding topics such as youth empowerment and education, librarian appreciation, and archival preservation.
The John B. Cade Library has consistently reached beyond traditional standards, making it a cultural and intellectual hub within the university’s community. The facility anticipates hosting the 10th Annual HBCU Library Alliance Membership Meeting from October 27-29, during which library staff and ambassadors will participate in various conversations surrounding topics such as youth empowerment, librarian appreciation, and archival preservation.
Winning this award highlights the library’s exceptional contributions to academic excellence and community development, positioning it as a model for libraries nationwide.
