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Machelle Keen’s career path at the Heard Libraries has been circuitous—but also instrumental in shaping her professional development and preparing her for her current role as interim manager of Access Services. Her journey at Vanderbilt began somewhat unexpectedly, she said. After being laid off from a previous position at a local church, Keen was introduced to the Vanderbilt Medical Library (now the Annette and Irwin Eskind Family Biomedical Library and Learning Center) through a connection to a librarian there. “This individual recognized my attention to detail and recommended me for an opportunity at the Vanderbilt Libraries,” she recalled.
Over the years, Keen has worked in a variety of roles and departments within the Heard Libraries system, including eight years at the Eskind Library, followed by stints in Technical Services, the Sarah Shannon Stevenson Science and Engineering Library (for a total of 19 years), the Peabody Library, and her current position at Central Library. “Each of these experiences has allowed me to develop a diverse skill set and deepen my knowledge of library operations,” she said. “The opportunity to work in multiple areas has been invaluable, enabling me to cultivate a well-rounded perspective and the ability to collaborate effectively across the organization.”
What aspect of the Heard Libraries makes you proud to work here?
I am proud to work at the Heard Libraries because of the direct impact our work has on student success. We have the opportunity to interact with students who rely on us to support their research, study and informational needs as well as their mental well-being. Whether it’s a familiar face stopping by to say hello, or a student seeking assistance with a specific query, these interactions remind me of the vital role the libraries play in the student experience.
I am honored to be part of an organization that prioritizes high-quality support and empowering students to achieve their full potential. I take great satisfaction in knowing that the services and resources we provide are essential to their academic journeys. Seeing them thrive is immensely rewarding.
Which of your professional accomplishments brings you the most satisfaction?
Two professional accomplishments stand out as particularly rewarding and meaningful to me. The first was my role in developing the Southern Library Support Staff Conference. What began as an initiative to support the professional development of our own Vanderbilt Libraries support staff evolved into a collaborative effort with the Nashville Area Library Alliance. Last year, we were able to bring the conference back to Vanderbilt and reimagine it to reach a wider audience. Witnessing the growth and impact of this conference over the years has been extremely gratifying.
The second accomplishment was being invited by the Tennessee State Library and Archives to speak to a group of library directors on the topic of leadership. I was honored to share my perspective on the importance of including all members of the library community, from custodial staff to librarians, in cultivating leadership opportunities. This experience allowed me to advocate for a more inclusive approach to leadership development within the library.
What is your ideal weekend?
My ideal weekend is one that allows me to indulge in hobbies and pastimes that bring me relaxation and fulfillment. I cherish the opportunity to switch gears and engage in creative pursuits like crocheting, wreath-making and my newfound passion for adult paint-by-number art projects. These hands-on activities provide a welcome mental break to unwind and recharge.
I’m also an avid reader, though I’ve found in recent years my schedule has left me with less time to devote to the quiet pleasure of reading physical books. The rise of audiobooks has become a true joy, allowing me to multitask and “read” while engaging in other activities, from exercising to household chores. In fact, I listened to 250 audiobooks last year!
But perhaps the most important aspect of my ideal weekend is time spent with my three sons and four grandchildren. They are the true center of my world, and being able to connect with them, whether through shared activities or quiet moments, is what brings me the greatest sense of happiness. These family connections are the bedrock of my weekends and leave me rejuvenated as I transition back into the work week.
