Sharnette Evans
Sharnette Evans is a dedicated Reference Librarian with over 10 years of experience in both public and academic library settings. Originally from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and primarily raised in Rocky Mount, she brings a deep appreciation for community-centered service into her work. She began her career in public libraries, where she spent two years building a strong foundation in community engagement before transitioning to academic libraries, where she has served for the past nine years.
Her work is centered on innovative programming that reimagines the role of the library beyond its traditional services. Sharnette is passionate about creating engaging, interactive experiences that extend the library’s reach into the broader campus and community. Through her dynamic approach, she continues to expand the impact of library services while fostering meaningful connections with those she serves.
Andy Foskey
Andy is the Instructional Librarian at Guilford Tech. After earning his MLIS at UNCG in 2008, he spent over a decade working at various college libraries in East Tennessee. He is thrilled to be back in the Triad area.
Joan Hill
Joan Hill is the Evening & Weekend Coordinator/Librarian and First-Year Experience Instructor at Winston-Salem State University. She has over 20 years of experience in academic libraries, her research interests encompass underrepresented and first-year, first-generation students, student success, mental health and wellness, and mentorship. She is passionate about teaching and lifelong learning, with a special interest in artificial intelligence. She is an active member of many library organizations including ALA, NCLA, and REMCo. Joan holds a BA in Political Science and Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and an MLIS from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Mason Hughes
I love reading books! I remember being 4 years of age, sitting on my dad’s knee as he read the story of Little Red Riding Hood to me. I recall the memory so well, because it was one of the few times I saw my dad wear his reading glasses, but also because as I followed along, my dad wasn’t “reading the words” he was reading the pictures and telling me the story his way. And that way of storytelling, made me want to read and know more about books.
I initially started working as an assistant in the public-school Media/Library departments. Seeing those students’ faces light up when helping them find a book that made their library experience great is what has kept me wanting to do as much as I can to make everyone’s library experience great! I carry that with me now, as I work for Forsyth County Public Library and F.D. Bluford Library at NC A&T State University.
I also need to say “Thank you” to 4 amazing Media Specialist/Librarians who inspired me to stay within the Library System. Mrs Myra Worrell, Mrs Jackie Pierson, Mrs Sandi Johnson and Mrs Jan Estep.
Lauren Pressley
Lauren Pressley is the Dean of Z. Smith Reynolds Library at Wake Forest University, where she leads initiatives that support teaching, research, learning, and campus engagement. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s MLIS program, Lauren began her library career at ZSR and has since held leadership positions at the University of Washington
Libraries, the University of Washington Tacoma Library, and Virginia Tech University Libraries. A recognized leader in academic librarianship, she served as president of the Association of College and Research Libraries (2018–2019) and has contributed extensively to national professional organizations. Her work has earned numerous honors, including recognition as a Library Journal Mover and Shaker and distinguished alumni awards from UNC Greensboro.
Lauren is known for her commitment to innovation, collaboration, and a people-centered vision for the future of libraries.
Octavious Spruill
Octavious Spruill is the Head of Access Services and Facilities at North Carolina A&T State University’s Bluford Library. His credentials include a BS in Public Health Education, a MLS Degree from North Carolina Central University, and an Associate’s Degree in Computer Information Systems from Durham Technical Community College. Since 2006, he has participated in many library space planning projects, survey assessment projects, and building renovation projects. As well as, spearheading many library emergency planning initiatives and safety workshops. His research interest revolves around library space planning, data collection and assessment, evolving library policies and procedures, and library safety.
Artis Williams
I am from Bolivia, N.C. Brunswick County on the coast. I like comic books, sports, movies, and going to the beach. I am a A&T alumnus, and I have worked at the university for almost 25 years. Aggie Pride!!!