Story: Lisa Sollie | Photo: Cody Ingram
Andrea Abernathy’s journey to becoming director of the Julia Tutwiler Library at the University of West Alabama began in the mountains of Tennessee with a simple library visit as a child. Growing up in a family that valued books, stories, and curiosity, Andrea says that visit sparked a lifelong passion for libraries. This passion would lead her first to becoming an English teacher, then to study library science and eventually return to her roots, where she could make a lasting impact on the field she loves.
Before joining UWA, Abernathy honed her skills at Judson College in Alabama, George Fox University in Oregon, and the Virginia Beach Public Library. Each position and library helped her develop a diverse skill set, preparing her for the role at UWA. “I told my mom after that library visit all those years ago, ‘I want my own library one day,’” she recalled. “That childhood dream has finally come true.”
Since joining UWA in the summer of 2024, Abernathy and her staff have already implemented several key initiatives. These include simplifying the library card application process and expanding access to JSTOR, a digital library providing access to academic research across 75 disciplines. They are also in the beginning stages of building an institutional repository, Digital Commons, to house UWA’s scholarship and published works. They have also updated Library policies to prioritize patron’s access to services and created clearer paths for accessing library services like the Interlibrary Loan and help from subject liaison librarians.
Abernathy’s arrival at UWA came at a pivotal time for the Tutwiler Library, following the death of longtime university librarian Dr Neil Snider, who had served for more than 50 years. Committed to honoring Dr. Snider’s legacy while guiding the Library into a new era, Abernathy says she is grateful to UWA Provost Dr. Tina Jones for her excellent leadership during the transition.
Another major focus for Abernathy is the Library’s upcoming transition to a new Library Management System (LMS), Ex Libris’ Alma and Primo, set to go live in November. “Kim McDade, the technical services librarian, has been working tirelessly to integrate all the system components,” Abernathy explained. “Once it’s fully operational, the new system will improve accessibility and efficiency for its users.”
In addition, Abernathy and her team are introducing a demand-driven acquisition model for eBooks. “We’ve curated eBooks in subjects like engineering and nursing, making them visible in the system,” Abernathy explains. “If there’s demand, we purchase them, so we have the resources our students and faculty need. We’re pioneering this now, but we’ll continue to expand our eBook collection throughout the year.”
The Library is also reviewing its existing collection, weeding out duplicates and outdated materials. Abernathy is partnering with Better World Books, an online bookstore that funds literacy initiatives to donate books to those who can use them, as well as digitally archive them for electronic checkout. “We’re committed to being good stewards of our resources,” she said.
Additionally, Abernathy is focused on making the Library’s holdings more comprehensive. “There are gaps in the collection, but we can’t fully identify those until the new system is up and running,” she noted. “We want our campus to know that the Library’s staff is here to partner with them, ensuring every discipline is represented and that faculty and students have the resources they need to support their studies.”
Abernathy’s priority is to remove barriers and foster an atmosphere of hospitality. More than just a place of quiet study, she believes the library should be a place of connection. “It’s a space for collaboration, creativity, and yes, sometimes pretending to study with friends,” she laughed. “We want to offer room for all of it.” She is especially grateful for the Library’s staff, and the collaborative effort of each member to work together to make the Library’s resources more accessible.
Building on the foundation Snider established with print and databases, Abernathy and her team are on the cutting edge of what libraries can offer. “We’re shaping the library for the future—creating an easy-to-use space that meets all of UWA’s needs,” she said.
Drawing inspiration from her mother’s former restaurant, where she believed the finest ingredients produced the best results, Abernathy is applying the same philosophy at the Library. “We’re choosing the best resources to support our students and faculty and help them succeed,” she said. “It’s all about building trust.”
Now ready to put down roots, build community, and call Alabama home once again, Abernathy says her new job is exciting. “I feel like an artist with a blank canvas,” she said. “I know what to do. I’ve seen it, and now I get to implement it.”