Library Journal Makes Georgia State Librarian a “Mover & Shaker”
Library Journal has added Georgia State University Librarian Jason Puckett to its highly-regarded list of “Movers & Shakers.” The March 2010 issue of the magazine recognizes new leaders like Puckett who will guide libraries through their changing role in the 21st century. In place since 2002, the Library Journal award recognizes people like Puckett as shapers of the future of libraries. Movers & Shakers try new ideas and strategies, use technology to solve problems creatively, and make a difference for libraries and their users.
Being selected as a member of this group requires both creativity and imagination and Puckett’s nomination recognized him as a “fearless innovator.” He is a tireless promoter of the open source citation manager Zotero and teaches the Georgia State community about this software during instruction sessions that he hosts each semester. Puckett has created an internationally-recognized online guide for using the software on the Georgia State University Library’s web site. His guide has been so useful that other libraries have taken advantage of its Creative Commons license and are using it at their own institutions.
Puckett also produces a monthly podcast called “Adventures in Library Instruction” with two of his colleagues. This do-it-yourself effort is evidence of Puckett’s commitment to his discipline as he uses an innovative method to discuss, improve and share information about library teaching with others around the nation. In addition to his personal podcast, Puckett has recorded several episodes of a “Library Insider” show dedicated to informing listeners to more about the Georgia State University Library.
Puckett’s creativity and commitment may have resulted in his selection by Library Journal, but Georgia State University benefits from his hard work every day. His devotion to promoting and teaching useful research software, as well as his dedication to sharing tips on how to be a top instructor are both evidence of how Puckett consistently makes a difference on campus.