Meet William Judd business librarian at McLeod Business Library
The McLeod Business Library at the Raymond A. Mason School of Business at William & Mary recently welcomed a new member to its team, William Judd, an instruction and research business librarian with a passion for supporting students and faculty in their academic and professional pursuits. With a recent Master of Science in Information Sciences from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and prior experience as a Public Services Librarian, Judd brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to the role.
As a business librarian, Judd's role goes beyond traditional librarianship. Business librarians specialize in providing targeted research support for business-related inquiries. They assist with navigating complex databases, understanding market research, and utilizing business intelligence tools. Their expertise is critical in helping students and faculty sift through vast data to find relevant and reliable information.
Background and Vision
Before joining William & Mary, Judd worked at the John C. Hodges Library in Knoxville, where he honed his skills in outreach and engagement. His transition to business librarianship was driven by a desire for specialization and a passion for the business field's unique challenges. "What draws me most to this role is the prospect of engaging with students, faculty, and staff in meaningful ways," Judd said. "I see each interaction as an opportunity to refine my skills and deepen my understanding of the business world."
Addressing Research Challenges
In today's era of information overload, Judd recognizes the challenge of navigating the deluge of data and misinformation. He aims to efficiently help the William & Mary community access accurate and valuable information. "The solution lies in familiarizing ourselves with reputable and scholarly resources," he explained. "I aim to cultivate expertise in these resources to assist in swift and accurate research."
Promoting Information Literacy
Information literacy is a cornerstone of academic success. Judd emphasizes teaching students to critically evaluate their findings and apply their research within specific course contexts. "True mastery comes through application within the curriculum," he noted. "I view my role as inherently collaborative, with the success of our students as my highest guiding principle."
Innovative Programs and Community Engagement
Judd is also enthusiastic about organizing events that enhance academic and social experiences. The McLeod Business Library recently sponsored a Competitive Microsoft Excel club in partnership with The Boehly Center. This initiative is part of the Financial Modeling World Cup and offers students opportunities to improve their Excel skills through monthly challenges and eSports battles.
Additionally, he is excited to continue hosting board game nights. "Board games are more than just fun—they provide a structured way to develop strategic thinking and connect with others," he shared. "I believe these events will continue to foster a sense of community within the business school."
Collaboration and Faculty Support
Effective collaboration with faculty is essential for supporting academic success. Judd plans to align his instruction with faculty curricula, integrating active learning strategies into their sessions. "I aim to establish connections with faculty to support their research and teaching goals better," Judd said.
Staying Current with Technology
In a field where technology evolves rapidly, Judd stays updated by participating in professional organizations, attending webinars, and maintaining communication with database vendors. "I integrate the latest tools and resources into my consultations and instructional sessions to ensure relevance and effectiveness," he explained.
The Role of Libraries in the Digital Age
Libraries play a crucial role in the digital age by teaching information literacy and providing access to essential resources. Judd views his role as equipping users with the skills to effectively find, evaluate, and use information. "Libraries are about more than just providing resources; we teach how to use them," he shared.
Advice for Maximizing Library Resources
For students and faculty looking to make the most of library resources, Judd offers simple advice: "Reach out! Let me know how I can support your work. Whether it's a research consultation, event organization, or fostering a sense of community, I'm here to help."
The McLeod Business Library strives to make a significant impact, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to support the William & Mary business school community. Judd's role is essential to making this happen, and he has already made a substantial impact in the community. He is already looking forward to the start of a new school year!
