"The November 4^th -9 ^th  2007 Information Literacy Leadership Institute was not only notably extraordinary, it was strikingly and intensively packed with rigorous teaching, learning and hands-on sessions in a very amiable environment. Substantial facts, evidence of what, how and why of information literacy was provided thereby dispelling the previously held specter of the term. If I may take a bold stand, it is obvious to all the participants that Information Literacy program is designable and attainable. Participants completed the institute challenged to promote information literacy and bring it into their campus academic culture.

Given the magnitude of the teaching and learning that took place in this institute, it was the support, perseverance, kindness, selfless service and overall hospitality of the institute organizers that set this institute apart. The only recommendation worth mentioning is that it may be worthwhile to have a plan in place for participants to attend retreats in the future.  

Warmest gratitude to the conference organizers for a job well done!"

Nkechi Amadife

Head of Reference and Information Services;

Library Instruction Coordinator

Kentucky State University

"The Information Literacy Leadership Institute was an historic and productive collaboration, which benefited every person and participating institution involved.  While the immediate impact includes the enhancement of library-based information literacy and technology initiatives, the recognition of HBCU library professionals as leaders and change agents encouraged us all to “continue with the work” at home, while appreciating the ongoing efforts of our HBCU colleagues and others in various segments of the library/information profession."

Fletcher F. Moon

Associate Professor/Head Reference Librarian

Brown-Daniel Library

Tennessee State University

"The HBCU Information Literacy Leadership Institute (ILLI) was without exception outstanding. I have attended other IL training institutes and this experience was much more meaningful for me. I think working (engaging in discussions and discovering solutions to problems) with institutions that were similar to my own (student population, campus culture, budget and staff restraints) made the training/learning processes more memorable and useful. The camaraderie was overwhelming intoxicating.

This leadership institute reaffirmed the pride that I have working at an HBCU despite some of the challenges that our schools face. This institute empowered me with practical tools and knowledge that I can use to build and improve my library's information literacy program. I tip my hat to the wonderful staff at Johnson C. Smith University for making this institute a rewarding experience."

Jama Lumumba
Reference/BI Librarian
Jackson State University
Division of Library and Information Resources
H. T. Sampson Library
Jackson, Mississippi

"I really had a wonderful experience at the ILLI.  I appreciate all of the effort that you and the other coordinators put forth to insure that the time we spent at the ILLI not only provided us with practical information and presentations that will enrich our IL programs, but also with activities, gatherings, and food (!) that contributed to an enjoyable, positive experience.  At the ILLI I learned about a variety of topics (particularly assessment ) that will enhance and improve our current IL program.

The ILLI gave me an opportunity to focus on designing and  improving our university’s IL program while collaborating and interacting with other librarians from institutions similar to mine.  The camaraderie, support, and positive exchanges that I experienced at the ILLI were unlike any other interactions that I have experienced at other institutes and conferences. Not only does the institute, as a whole, deserve big gold stars, but the participants as well. I was reminded that, collectively, we are continuing to make strides, oftentimes in spite of a variety of challenges, in educating and informing our students."

Bethany Wilkes

Acting Manager, Learning Resources & Student Technology Services

Information Technology Services

University of the Virgin Islands

#2 John Brewer's Bay

St. Thomas, VI  00802

"...I am so glad I was selected because it was extremely helpful. I was amazed just how nice everyone at JCSU was and how close our group became. Thank you so much."

Lois I. Marshall
Lincoln University
Jefferson City, MO 65101

"Libraries are full of mountains of dreams and valleys of desires. These dreams and desires that libraries hold keeps me fueled in knowing how to always give my best and I will get the best in return.  As Mahatma Gandhi once stated “Be the change you want to see in the world”.   I will take full use of those words and help be a part of many changes that are happening in the world of Information Literacy for libraries in the academic sector. I am thankful to have been awarded the opportunity to attend the Information Literacy Institute hosted by John C. Smith University, James B. Duke Memorial Library and the Mellon Grant Foundation this past February 2008 in Charlotte, NC. From learning literacy theories and best practices on information literacy program developments to technology and information literacy instruction to assessment and library accreditation requirements, I was able to be engaged, enlightened and empowered about information literacy and student learning.  I gained many resources and good networking among the librarians and speakers that I meet to help me stay vital to fostering life-long learning and information literacy skills at the John B. Coleman Library of Prairie View A&M University- A part of the Texas A&M University System. Thank you! ILLI for all your endearing library support and knowledge it was very much appreciated."

Kimberly M. Gay

Reference and Instruction Librarian

John B. Coleman Library

Prairie View A&M University

Please allow me to take this opportunity to thank all of you for a wonderful experience at the conference... I wrote a report for my campus administration about the benefits of the week-long training.  Everything was of tremendous help to me and I learned so much to share here.  The event was well planned; the presenters were all well prepared and experts in the field.  This experience will be long remembered.

Evelyn K. Bonner, Ph.D
Director of Library Services
Wiley College