Laura K. Clark Hunt embarked on her academic journey with a focus on Information Science/Studies at Florida State University. She earned her Master's degree in 2011 and went on to complete her Ph.D. in Information Science/Studies in 2016 from the same institution.
Professional Endeavors
Dr. Clark Hunt has been serving as an Assistant Professor on a tenure-track at the School of Library and Information Science within the College of Education and Human Sciences at the University of Southern Mississippi since September 1, 2021.
Her commitment to effective college instruction is demonstrated by her certification in "Effective College Instruction" from the Association of College and University Educators/American Council on Education.
She has been actively involved in teaching a variety of courses related to library and information science, including Development of Library Collection, Technology in the School Library, Programs and Services for Youth, Library Management, Studies in Early Children's Literature, Public Libraries, and Topics in Services to Library Clientele.
Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Clark Hunt's research focuses on various aspects of library science and information literacy. Her notable research includes a systematic review and case study on "Students with Disabilities Perceptions on the Library and College" published in the Journal of Academic Librarianship. She has also explored the experiences of public librarians in cases of censorship, as evident in her publication in the Public Library Quarterly.
In terms of external funding, she has been successful in obtaining grants, such as the "Service-Learning Faculty Fellows Seminar" sponsored by the Center for Community Engagement at the University of Southern Mississippi.
Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Clark Hunt received the ACUE Distinguished Teaching Scholar award in November 2022, recognizing her excellence in teaching at the University of Southern Mississippi.
Impact and Influence
Her work on topics such as creating inclusive environments in academic libraries, cultural heritage-infused curriculum, and the privacy paradigm shift for librarians has made a significant impact. Dr. Clark Hunt has presented her research findings at various conferences, including ALISE Annual Conference and ALLA Annual Convention, contributing to the broader academic community.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Dr. Clark Hunt's legacy is marked by her commitment to education, research, and service. Her extensive involvement in professional organizations, such as Beta Phi Mu and the American Library Association, positions her as a thought leader in the field. Her ongoing research projects, including "Creating Quality Environments in Academic Libraries for Disabled Persons," indicate a commitment to addressing contemporary challenges in the field.
As she continues her academic journey, Dr. Clark Hunt is poised to make further contributions to the field of library and information science, shaping the future of education and research in this domain.
Notable Publications