Going the Distance!

Phil Orr of Rice Library was recognized October 19, 2009 for his outstanding leadership and service to the statewide library community. Distance Learning Librarian since 2001, Phil received the Indiana Library Federation 2009 Federation Leadership Award, honoring a librarian whose leadership performance within the group far exceeds expectations. He founded and chaired the ILF Distance Learning Division (2006-2009) and recently was Guest Editor for a distance-education themed issue of Indiana Libraries. The Distance Learning Division promotes and supports the delivery of library services for distance and off-campus students and faculty in Indiana institutions. Susan Akers, ILF Executive Director, says “the awards committee was impressed with Phil’s determination and desire to improve library services and his tireless commitment to achieving excellence in the distance learning setting.”

Prior to coming to USI, Phil held professional library positions with Saint Louis Christian College in Florissant, MO, Kaskaskia College in Centralia, IL, and the Mississippi Library Commission in Jackson, MS. He also has twelve years experience as a public school teacher and a school library media specialist in Nashville, IL. He earned his B.A. in History and an M.S. in Ed. In Instructional Materials, both from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, as well as an M.S. in Library and Information Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

In bestowing this award, ILF has manifested what USI’s distance faculty and students as well as Phil’s colleagues have known for years: he is a consummate librarian, always thinking of ways to improve programming and resources, while providing excellent direct service to users. Your teammates are proud of you, Phil!