معرفی
Karl Siewert serves as Emerging and Immersive Technology Librarian at the University of Central Oklahoma's Chambers Library, directing the Innovation Studio—a maker space featuring 3D printing, laser cutting, and virtual reality technologies for student and faculty learning. With over 20 years of library experience, they also lead UCO's 2SLGBTQIA+ Faculty/Staff Association as president and maintain active scholarly engagement in library science.
Education:
- Masters of Library and Information Science, Dominican University via College of St. Catherine, St. Paul, MN (2001)
- Bachelor of Arts in English Education, Fort Hays State University, Hays, KS (1995)
Siewert's research centers on LGBTQIA+ inclusion in librarianship, intellectual freedom advocacy, and emerging technology integration. Their work critically examines trans representation in collections, land acknowledgment practices, and technical succession planning, positioning them at the intersection of social justice and library innovation. As a non-binary librarian, they bring lived experience to scholarship on queer identity in LIS.
Recent publications (2019-2023) reveal a strong trajectory in social justice scholarship, with book chapters on queer self-discovery and presentations addressing censorship challenges. Earlier works include extensive horror/zombie fiction reviews (2006-2010), demonstrating consistent genre expertise alongside evolving focus on identity and inclusion. Their output bridges practical library service with theoretical frameworks in gender studies and technology adoption.
No scientific awards were documented in available sources.
Siewert mentors through Innovation Studio leadership and 2SLGBTQIA+ advocacy rather than formal student advising. While grant details are absent, their Carpentries certification and ORCID presence indicate ongoing professional development. They actively shape library practice through Oklahoma ACRL leadership since 2016.
The Innovation Studio functions as their primary research environment, supporting hands-on technology exploration. Through the 2SLGBTQIA+ Faculty/Staff Association, they cultivate inclusive campus culture, connecting library services to broader institutional diversity initiatives.
