Congratulations to Frances Yates, director of the IU East Library. She was chosen as this year’s winner of the Herbert S. and Virginia White Professional Development Award for her engaging plan of professional growth entitled “Home is History.” Having served as the IU East campus history librarian from 2016 – 2020 in preparation of the IU Bicentennial, Frances was hooked. In her letter of support, Kristin Leaman,  than Bicentennial Archivist, wrote, “Frances recently completed her appointment as our campus liaison for the IU Bicentennial Oral History Project, and although she began that work with little formal training as a historian or archivist, her passion and enthusiasm for the project over the last four years was evident.”

“Home is History” is a variety of lesson plans for the youth of Union County, where Frances lives. Incorporating the use of primary sources at the IU East library, the local public library, and other community partners such as the historical society, Frances will orchestrate the coordination of gathering and creation of historic artifacts for the Union County bicentennial. Not only will she build her own skills, she will share them, teaching younger students about the history of their county while utilizing college students as archivists. She will conduct the gathering of oral histories, teaching students interview skills. She hopes to collaborate eventually with the Center for Rural Engagement. “My professional goal and personal hope is that it will serve as a model and roadmap for other small towns, and that other regional campuses may see the benefit of these local historical research partnerships.” 

Herb White had a distinguished career in librarianship, lasting over 4 decades. He served as the Dean of the School of Library Science from 1980 – 1990. His wife, Virginia, gave her talents to the Library of Congress, several public libraries, and served as a mentor for Herb. Frances writes, “I was fortunate to be in the first MLS class under Dean White, and we enjoyed hearing his varied stories from the field and his sharing of wisdom. I believe that this “Home is History” project embodies the intent and spirit of The Herbert S. and Virginia White Professional Development Award, with a focus on listening, experiencing, and creating and sharing new knowledge.”