Gary Fitsimmons

Dr. Gary Fitsimmons is a Professor of Information Literacy and Director of Library Services at Bryan College, Dayton, TN, where he has served for 15 years. His career spans 32 years in academic librarianship, including leadership roles at two institutions where he established college archives. He holds a Ph.D. in Library Science (2005), an MLS (1990), and a BA in Communication Arts (1978).

• Education: Ph.D. and MLS from Texas Woman’s University; BA from Oral Roberts University.

His research and professional work focus on library leadership, information literacy, and scholarly communication. He has contributed to the understanding of shared governance models, institutional repositories, and digital commons through publications and presentations. His recent article on shared governance explores its dual nature as both challenging and beneficial for academic libraries.

Dr. Fitsimmons has organized workshops on e-publishing and scholarly communication, served on strategic planning committees, and actively participated in professional organizations like the American Library Association and the Association of Christian Librarians. He emphasizes Christian service and education in his professional and personal life, mentoring students and leading community initiatives.