CAMMIE HARDOUIN
School of Library Information Science, University of Iowa (2025)
Welcome to my MLIS Portfolio
This portfolio reflects my journey as a first-generation college student in the University of Iowa MLIS program, shaped by my Clifton Strengths as a Lifelong Learner, Ideator, Connector, and Futurist. Grounded in feminist care ethics, emergent leadership, intellectual freedom, and cultural humility, my work not only defines my professional philosophy but also empowers me to navigate and overcome the challenges of teen homelessness in Los Angeles, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and late-diagnosed neurodivergence. These experiences drive my commitment to creating equitable, compassionate, and empowering library spaces for all.
During my U2G MLIS studies, I developed expertise in critical policy analysis, information access, and inclusive leadership, further strengthened by earning my University of Iowa Leadership Studies Certificate. My research into accessibility policies has shaped my approach to creating welcoming spaces, high functioning teams, and user-centered services. I am committed to advocating for access to diverse reading materials in libraries and promoting inclusive leadership that values collaboration and representation. I was nominated for the LIS honor society Beta Phi Mu.
Over the next five years, I will contribute to the Minnesota Library Association’s annual conference, dedicate five hours monthly to professional development, and advocate for libraries as inclusive, transformative spaces that foster lifelong learning and community engagement.
This portfolio outlines how my education meet’s ALA Core Competencies.
Analysis of Discipline
Description
My research, Navigating Critical Thought and Freedom to Read, investigates why libraries must support critical thinking and intellectual freedom. It delves into the challenges and opportunities arising from the clash between open access, anti-intellectualism, and censorship trends. Through research on nonpartisan civic spaces, I aimed to demonstrate how libraries can lead as inclusive third spaces in American culture. I call for democratic values rooted in civic decency and safe learning spaces. This text shows how libraries advance democratic values through intellectual freedom.
Navigating Critical Thought and Freedom to Read
Analysis
This essay emphasizes librarianship ethical principles, democracy and intellectual freedom in alignment with Gateway competencies (1A and 1B). The research explores library practices and their role in society (1C and 1D). Understanding libraries, information agencies and identifying significant social, cultural, and policy trends are critical components of the essay. It also touches on the legal framework governing libraries and the need for effective advocacy (1E, 1F, 1G and 1H). Through critical thought and freedom to read, the essay reinforces the librarian's role in fostering an inclusive, ethical, and informed community.
Reflection
This essay deepened my ability to critically navigate biases and advocate for intellectual freedom. Moving forward, I will apply these skills to policy discussions and program development, ensuring libraries remain inclusive civic spaces. This understanding enables me to handle a variety of information access issues effectively.
The Legal Landscape of Librarianship (L3) Forum (link expired) was held virtually from February 18–20, 2025 and hosted by Dr. Lucy Santos Green. The event explored legal and political issues impacting libraries and addressed several ALA Gateway Competencies, particularly those related to legal frameworks, advocacy, and ethical responsibilities in librarianship.Together, these sessions aligned with ALA Gateway Competencies (1F–1H) by addressing the need for legal awareness, strategic advocacy, and resistance to political misinformation in library practice.
Three Takeaways:
Two Questions:
One Thing I Will Start Doing:
I plan to deepen my legal literacy and advocate for greater awareness of librarians’ rights and responsibilities, especially in the face of censorship and professional harassment. I am also seeking appropriate professional responses to reputational attacks, as I have been personally targeted by Dan Kleinman (SafeLibraries) for liking a colleague’s celebratory post about her leadership role.
Legal Landscape of Librarianship Forum (L3)
2. INFORMATION RESOURCES
Information Literacy
Description
This lesson plan and LibGuide teach learners how to evaluate information sources and recognize misinformation. Through interactive activities, classroom discussions, and a special LibGuide, learners gain essential concepts such as identifying primary sources versus secondary sources and fact-checking. After observation quizzes and verification activities, learners complete reflective homework assignments. By developing essential information literacy skills, learners can navigate digital environments responsibly and ethically according to ACRL and ISTE academic guidelines.
Lesson Plan & LibGuide: Understanding Misinformation and Fake News
Analysis
The OER lesson plan and LibGuide align well with ALA's Information Resources competency objectives. They facilitate knowledge creation and use by providing open access resources and interactive activities that engage learners in the information lifecycle (2A). The plan demonstrates strong collection management practices through the careful selection of credible sources and the long-term utility of the LibGuide (2B). It incorporates emerging formats like social media and fake news, while addressing misinformation diverse cultural impacts (2C). The LibGuide enable students to develop media evaluation skills and become informed, information users through digital literacy and fact-checking training.
Reflection
Creating the lesson plan and LibGuide highlighted the importance of adaptable teaching strategies and practical tools in combating misinformation. This experience deepened my understanding of the information lifecycle, collection management, and evolving genres to foster digital literacy and critical thinking in diverse communities navigating complex information ecosystems,
Amanda Jones, Best-Selling Author & School Librarian
I attended the December 3, 2024, SLIS PD Series hosted by Dr. Lucy Santos Green asynchronously on February 14, 2025. Amanda Jones is a nationally recognized advocate for intellectual freedom, shared her experiences resisting censorship in schools and libraries. Despite years of harassment, she continues to defend the freedom to read, build inclusive collections, and speak publicly at board meetings. Her presentation highlighted the importance of ethical librarianship, equitable access, and professional resilience. Amanda’s work embodies key ALA Core Competencies and offers a powerful model for leadership under pressure. The session provided practical insights into supporting intellectual freedom and affirmed the vital role of librarians in resisting political and social challenges to access and representation.
Three Takeaways:
Two Questions:
One Thing I Will Start Doing: I will advocate more openly for diverse materials in social media, in readers advisory and be proactive in supporting intellectual freedom, using Amanda’s example to lead with resilience and uphold professional values even in the face of opposition.
3. LIFELONG LEARNING AND CONTINUING EDUCATION
Professional Development
Description
The book review and talk of Introduction to Law Librarianship evaluates an open-access e-book designed for current and aspiring law librarians. It offers practical advice, addresses equity and innovation, and focuses on sustainability and professional growth. The review highlights the book's relevance to law librarianship and its contributions to addressing self-advocacy and care in the library field.
Book Review & Book Talk: Introduction to Law Librarianship.
Analysis
The review demonstrates how Introduction to Law Librarianship meets ALA Core Competency 3 by emphasizing ongoing professional development (3A) through networking and career-building activities. It recognizes the library's role in continuing education and lifelong learning (3B), with chapters on inclusivity and social justice. The book employs various techniques to accommodate diverse learning preferences (3C) with practical tools and insights for different library sectors. The review illustrates how learning theories and instructional methods (3D) are applied within the book through its pedagogical and mental health emphasis.
Reflection
Reading Introduction to Law Librarianship impressed on me how self-care, scholarship, and ongoing professional growth should be embraced by everyone in the field of librarianship. The practical and inclusive methods presented in the book will guide my future career in any library environment.
Lifelong Learning
On March 6, 2025, I completed the WebJunction course Embracing Neurodiversity: Cultivating an Inclusive Workplace for Neurodivergent Staff. Through the training we learned how to create supportive workplaces for neurodivergent professionals by introducing sensory-friendly spaces along with clear communication protocols. The course met ALA Core Competency 3 requirements through its dedication to lifelong learning and inclusive professional development methods.
Three Takeaways:
Two Questions:
One Thing I Will Start Doing:
My role on the Minnesota Library Association conference planning committee will involve promoting accessible practices for neurodivergent participants through quiet spaces and adjustable session structures alongside visual scheduling methods. I will demonstrate openness to neurodivergent accommodations in my workplaces because they benefit every team member by supporting clearer communication and improving focus and well-being throughout all library staff.
4. MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION
Management
Description
The project requires students to develop a successful strategic plan for a library that reflects its fundamental values, along with its mission and organizational objectives. An organization's strategic plan must include its core values, mission, SWOT analysis, SMART goals, and strengths and weaknesses. Campus support is identified as a strength, while staff retention is identified as an opportunity for improvement. Library strategies enhance critical thinking and collaboration.
Analysis
The Law Library's core values include Knowledge, Excellence, Empowerment, Justice, and Adaptability. The assessment reveals organizational strengths and weaknesses together with external opportunities and threats which correspond with ALA Core Competency 4. The plan emphasizes effective supervisory practices and fosters professional development and equity among staff (4A). Besides assessing and evaluating library services (4C), it supports diverse partnerships and community engagement (4D). It incorporates change management and leadership principles (4E). Clear project management strategies are outlined for achieving organizational goals (4F). Finally, it fosters transparent communication and collaboration with stakeholders (4G).
Reflection
In reflecting, the strategic plan not only fosters an adaptable and collaborative workplace but also emphasizes the importance of transparent communication and stakeholder trust. Such practices are vital for addressing challenges and enhancing community engagement in library services. The emphasis on continuous evaluation and innovative approaches showcases a commitment to professional growth and quality service delivery.
Policy Planning
I attended the WebJunction course Eliminating Library Fines: Improving Community Access, Equity, and Usage on March 6, 2025, It aimed to enhance library access through equity and usage enhancement strategies. Leaders from Yolo County Library (CA) and EveryLibrary demonstrated how getting rid of overdue fines helps to eliminate access barriers while improving circulation figures and library equity. The course followed the ALA Core Competencies guidelines for Management and Administration (4B-4F) while focusing on service adaptation together with equitable policy implementation and community-centric leadership practices.
Three Takeaways:
Two Questions:
One Thing I Will Start Doing:
I will advocate for fine-free policies among my professional contacts in areas outside Minnesota. Here, academic and public libraries have already implemented this model. Many librarians and colleagues remain unaware of the supporting evidence for the policy even though it is gaining momentum. My intention is to present evidence and positive outcomes that illustrate how fine-free library models support essential library missions by promoting equitable access while eliminating obstacles and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for everyone.
5. ORGANIZATION OF RECORDED KNOWLEDGE AND INFORMATION
Research Guides
Description
The LibGuide Perspectives on Leadership offers critical resources and databases tailored for college students engaged in group projects, facilitating research and collaboration. This resource includes structured access to notable databases such as ABI Inform Global and Academic Search Elite, along with instructions for Zotero, reading lists, and essential class texts, crucial for effective information management and the enhancement of student learning experiences.
LibGuide: Perspectives on Leadership
Analysis
The creation of the Perspectives on Leadership LibGuide aligns with the ALA Core Competency of Organization of Recorded Knowledge and Information (5A) by significantly enhancing student access to reputable databases, which in turn fosters the development of critical analytical and evaluative skills necessary for effective information assessment. Additionally, the focus on metadata and classification standards supports the notion of maintaining robust cataloging and indexing systems (5C). This LibGuide not only promotes digital literacy but also encourages critical thinking orchestrated around the collective collaboration required in academic settings, thus reinforcing my ability to assist students in navigating information effectively.
Reflection
The LibGuide has been instrumental in assisting students with their course and group projects. Its usage metrics reflect increased engagement, directly correlating with student enrollment. By providing essential resources and emphasizing information organization principles, the LibGuide cultivates critical skills necessary for successful research, emphasizing collaboration and informed inquiry within academic contexts.
6. REFERENCE AND USER SERVICES
Reference Services
Description
The Significance of Reference and User Services: A Reflective Journey examines the complex functions reference and user services perform in librarianship. The document seeks to enhance personal development, detailing project experiences, and aligning theory with practical application in integrated library systems, cataloging procedures, and anti-racist collection development strategies. This reflection underscores the need to deliver effective reference and user services for diverse communities.
The Significance of Reference and User Services: A Reflective Journey
Analysis
The essay demonstrates compliance with the ALA Core Competency in Reference and User Services by illustrating methods for finding and evaluating information alongside the integration of diverse sources (6A). It identifies consultation and mediation methods and emphasizes ethical practice through RUSA Behavioral Competencies (6B, 6C). The essay highlights how library services must understand community information needs (6D), evaluate and assess importance (6E), and practice cultural humility (6F).
Reflection
This reflective assignment fostered personal growth and increased self-esteem, highlighting how my 20-year library paraprofessional career developed methodical expertise in system-based solutions like ILS formatting, report creation, and cataloging. It illustrated how my extensive cataloging and acquisition skills apply to collection development, emphasizing project involvement, professional development, and DEI advocacy. I gained a renewed understanding of cultural humility and its application in library reference services, ensuring I can serve diverse communities effectively and ethically.
Service Leadership
Explanation of Activity
David A. Hurley, Sarah R. Kostelecky, and Lori Townsend conducted a session titled Cultural Humility in Library Work, which explored the concept of cultural humility and its practical application in libraries. The presenters provided a detailed definition of cultural humility, emphasizing its benefits, such as improving inclusivity and respect in customer service interactions, while also acknowledging its limitations.
Cultural Humility in Library Work
How it Meets Learning Goals in This Competency
The session demonstrates how the transformative framework of cultural humility underscores the importance of understanding user perspectives to build effective reference and user services (6A). It outlines actionable steps for improving library policies and collection development to better serve diverse community needs. This approach addresses power disparities between library patrons and staff as well as within staff relationships.
Active participation in community needs aligns with ALA Core Competencies, emphasizing the creation of a respectful library environment for all users (6F) and adherence to ethical information service practices (6C). The practice of cultural humility enables librarians to recognize personal biases and their impact on user interactions. Library professionals adopting this framework highlight the importance of adaptability in meeting changing demographic needs, improving the library experience for all patrons. This perspective supports libraries in fulfilling their mission as inclusive organizations, promoting universal information access for all.
7. RESEARCH AND EVIDENCE BASED PRACTICE
Digital Literacy
Description
Students learn about AI concepts and their ethical and social implications through a lesson plan using group discussions alongside open-access educational materials like interactive web-based resources, AI scavenger hunts, and case study analysis. Students gain hands-on experience of AI tools like the Moral Machine to understand AI's everyday applications.
Analysis
The AI lesson plan aligns well with ALA Core Competency 7: Research and Evidence-Based Practice. It introduces AI principles and systems, helping learners understand AI trends by engaging students with multidisciplinary approaches to various information issues (7A). The lesson plan encourages students to discover and synthesize existing research, aligning relevant findings to their educational needs. It also teaches students to recognize the ethical and appropriate application of key research methods, techniques, and designs in the field of AI (7B).
Evaluation
The AI lesson plan improves students' analytical thinking abilities and critical thinking processes through practical activities that discuss AI's societal impacts. Through their studies, students gain comprehensive knowledge of AI concepts and ethical considerations along with its practical applications, which enables them to address AI complexities with responsibility. The educational strategy prepares students to utilize their knowledge effectively in actual situations.
Information Access Policies
Explanation of Activity
Presented by Amy Mikel, Director of Customer Experience at Brooklyn Public Library, and Emily Thomas, Senior Director of Research and Consulting at Avenue M Group, this session explains a 2023 research project launched by Brooklyn Public Library. The project collected and studied cardholder signup policies from public libraries nationwide. The findings, summarized in a 2024 report, aim to identify various policies and their rationales.
Cardholder Signup Policies: Access in Practice
How It Meets Learning Goals in This Competency
This project involves discovering and synthesizing research from over 1,800 libraries, providing valuable insights for professional development and institutional improvement. By analyzing various signup policies, library professionals can align their practices with evidence-based findings, enhancing their services. It meets ALA Core Competency 7 by using multidisciplinary research approaches (7A), applying key research methods and data analysis (7B), understanding evolving research principles and ethical considerations (7C), and promoting professional growth through comprehensive data collection and reporting (7D).
8. SOCIAL JUSTICE
Community Programming
Description
Flavors of Eden Prairie is a food literacy program and cultural festival celebrating the neighborhood's diverse culinary traditions. Featuring cooking demonstrations, tastings, and discussions by local chefs and food activists, topics include Indigenous food sovereignty, sustainable harvesting, immigrant food customs, and Minnesota food history. This program aligns with ALA Core Competency 8: Social Justice by fostering inclusivity, amplifying underrepresented voices, and promoting equitable access to food knowledge. It highlights how libraries serve as platforms for social justice through community engagement and cultural programming.
Analysis
The program addresses social justice by creating an inclusive space that recognizes marginalized food traditions by exploring the role of power and privilege in food access (8A). It challenges dominant narratives and elevates Indigenous and immigrant food histories in a way that furthers understanding of many Minnesota food histories. Collaboration with diverse chefs, cookbook authors ensures equitable resource access (8E). This experience demonstrated how libraries can tackle systemic inequities and foster meaningful dialogue on cultural and social issues as a community celebration.
Reflection
Reflection on this program reinforced the importance of multicultural,inclusive programming to drive social justice impact. Future version of this proposal will include collaborations with educational institutions and advocacy groups, multilingual resources, and local food pantries. These initiatives will continue to dismantle systemic barriers, ensuring libraries remain spaces for equity and empowerment.
Anti-Racism Planning Tools
Explanation of Activity
The Racial Equity Impact Tool (REIT) from Hennepin County equips staff with the knowledge and skills to address racial disparities in policies, services, evaluations, and reflections, aligned with ALA Core Competency 8: Social Justice. By integrating equity training into all levels of operations, REIT fosters inclusive decision-making and equitable access to resources, thereby preparing staff to address barriers faced by diverse populations. This comprehensive approach ensures library professionals are well-equipped to promote equity and inclusion, making REIT essential for professional development.
Racial Equity Impact Tool (REIT)
How It Meets Learning Goals
REIT encourages all staff to understand biases and systemic structures, promoting social justice and equity while emphasizing outreach and continuous professional development. REIT from Hennepin County equips staff with the knowledge and skills to recognize and address racial disparities in policies, services, evaluations, and reflections, fostering inclusive decision-making and equitable access to resources. This aligns with ALA Core Competency 8: Social Justice, meeting its standards and making REIT essential for professional development by preparing librarians to address barriers faced by diverse populations and promoting equity and inclusion.
9. TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE
Digital Difference
Description
Hennepin County Libraries leverage technology to reduce barriers and promote equitable access to services for marginalized populations, including refugees and immigrants. Initiatives like the Digital Navigation Program provide devices, internet access, and training in multiple languages. Free faxing ensures accessibility for essential tasks. These programs exemplify the library's commitment to addressing digital inequities through the thoughtful application of technology.
Hennepin County Libraries: a Gateway to Digital Access and Inclusion for Refugees
Analysis
Hennepin County Libraries' technology use aligns with Technology Knowledge, Competency 9 by delivering accessible, user-centered services. Programs like free faxing and multilingual tech support demonstrate ethical considerations ensuring inclusivity for underserved populations (9B). Regular evaluation of initiatives, such as tracking Somali patron visits and distributing devices, assesses the impact and sustainability of services (9C). These efforts highlight the library's role in bridging the digital divide, fostering community engagement, and addressing cultural needs through adaptable technologies.
Reflection
The library's approach inspired me to focus my job application on library systems that promote and celebrate inclusive services. Several surrounding communities continue to improve policies in favor of libraries' service mission, including equitable access to technology resources and services.
Data Visualization
Explanation of Activity
PowerPoint Data Visualization with PowerPoint MVP Echo Swinford provided me with crucial skills for effectively communicating technical and statistical data visually. It emphasizes creating clear, compelling, and accessible charts and graphs. Mastering these techniques supports informed decision-making and advocacy within library services.
High-Impact Charts and Graphs Online Class
How It Meets Learning Goals
This activity aligns with the ALA Core Competency in Technical Knowledge by building skills in visual data presentations, such as charts and graphs, which are essential for communicating the impact of technologies supporting library services (9A). The training emphasizes creating engaging, accessible, and clear visualizations, ensuring ethical and inclusive data communication (9B). Additionally, it supports the evaluation of metrics, like patron visits and program outcomes, to assess program impact, promoting sustainability and equity (9C). By developing these skills, library professionals can make informed decisions, effectively communicate data, and advance technology-driven initiatives with confidence.
PRACTICUM
Collection Development
Description
My practicum placement at the Hennepin Technical College Library is supervised by librarian Adam Bezdicek. I focus on library instruction projects, utilizing resources such as Learning Express Library and Petersen's Career Test Prep. My responsibilities include creating instructional aids like videos and a Dental Hygienist LibGuide, while coordinating effectively with colleagues in a remote setting. This experience supports resource enhancement for students, specifically those in the upcoming Dental Hygienist program, launching in Fall 2025.
Key Concepts and Subject Headings
Analysis
By prioritizing equitable resources (1A) and revising instructional materials to suit diverse learners (3C), I enhanced usability. My assessment of collections for the Dental Hygienist program (2B) and creation of resource lists (5A) reflect strong organizational skills. Collaborating with my supervisor (4D) and developing a resource guide (6A) demonstrated my ability to align projects with institutional goals and user needs. This experience reinforced my commitment to professional librarian standards and equitable access in academic libraries. I focused on accessibility, collection management, and instruction in alignment with ALA Core Competencies.
Reflection
This practicum enhanced my skills in collection development, library instruction, and resource management. I’ve gained valuable insights into collaboration and adaptability, tackling challenges like technology issues and project adjustments. This rewarding experience highlighted the close-knit nature of the library profession and its transformative cultural impact. Overall, it deepened my understanding of the role of accessible resources in fostering equitable education and professional growth.