Hello, I am the Information Literacy and Outreach Librarian; I have worked at Hollins since 2002. My current work focuses on creating student-centered and impactful opportunities for teaching information literacy. As the librarian to all of the visual and performing arts departments, I love the never-ending opportunity to work with artists to further their goals, collaborating to answer questions, brainstorm opportunities, and deepen intellectual and creative exploration. In addition to my work facilitating teaching and research, I am also building the library’s collection to support the arts at Hollins.
Students, I’m here to help you with any stage of your research projects: whether you are working on a paper, presentation, play, screenplay, thesis, or other work of art. Schedule an appointment with me at https://calendly.com/librarymbarber.
Areas of Expertise
- Assists students with research in the following majors:
- Art History
- Dance
- Film
- Music
- Theatre
- Studio Art
Courses Taught
- DANC/FILM/MUSIC/THEA 250 Research for the Arts
- THEA 262 Non-Western Theatre
Accomplishments
- Cocreator of Wyndham Robertson Library’s fine-free policy.
- Co-Chair, Hollins Reconciliation: Campus Spaces Task Force, 2021-22.
- Hollins Distinguished Service Award, 2022.
- Virginia Library Association Treasurer, 2011-2013.
Research Interests
- Contemplative pedagogical methods.
- Research methods for creative work.
- Research, metacognition and reflection.
- Student-centered pedagogy.
Education
- M.S.I.S., University of Tennesee, Knoxville
- M.F.A., Virginia Commonwealth University
- B.F.A., Shenandoah College and Conservatory
Publications & Articles
- Barber, M., Vilelle, L. (2013) “Looking Outward: Partnerships and Outreach at Hollins University.” In Excellence in the Stacks: Strategies, Practices and Reflections of Award-Winning Libraries. Oxford: Chandos Publishing.
- Barber, M. (2012) “Thinking Outside of the Book: Recycled Book Art at the Library.” Virginia Libraries, 58.4, 5-6.
- Barber, M. (2007) “You can do it: documents for International Women’s Day and National Women’s History Month.” DTTP: Documents to the People, 35,1, 20-21.