UNC School of Information and Library Science

SILS Launches Advisory Boards to Support New School Transition  - School of Information and Library Science The School of Information and Library Science (SILS) is pleased to announce the launch of two new advisory boards to help guide the school through the New School transition: the New School Alumni…

As we prepare for the launch of the new School of Data and Information Sciences in July 2026, SILS has established two advisory boards to ensure alumni and students have a meaningful voice throughout the transition.

🔗 Read more: buff.ly/6PbGulc

#UNCSILS #UNCChapelHill

Graphic for UNC School of Information and Library Science event titled “Cup of Tea with Dr. P.” Hosted by Dr. Ericka Patillo, Associate Dean for Academics. Text reads: “Come for cards, snacks, and friendly conversations.” Wednesday, March 11, 2:30–3:30 p.m., SILS Library in Manning Hall. Design features illustrated hands holding a cup of tea with decorative leaves and abstract shapes in Carolina blue and navy.

Unwind midweek with tea, treats, and community!

Cup of Tea with Dr. P returns Wednesday, March 11, from 2:30–3:30 p.m. in the SILS Library. Join us for tea, snacks and cards while connecting with fellow members of the SILS community.

🔗 buff.ly/ESVZPM2

#UNCSILS #UNCChapelHill

SILS Mocktail Mixer & Merch Madness. SILS BSIS students and alumni. March 4, 6-7:30 pm. Student Union Rm. 3205. Refreshments provided. Photo of 4 SILS students outside Manning Hall. SILS logo. Argyle design along the bottom.

Our SILS Mocktail Mixer & Merch Madness networking event is just around the corner!

🗓️ Wednesday, March 4, 2026
🕕 6–7:30 p.m.
📍 Student Union Room 3205

Don’t miss out! Register here: bit.ly/BSISMixer

#UNCSILS

Save the Date. SILS Mocktail Mixer & Merch Madness. SILS BSIS students and alumni. March 4, 6-7:30 pm. Student Union Rm. 3205. Refreshments provided. Photo of 4 SILS students outside Manning Hall. SILS logo. Argyle design along the bottom.

Save the date! 🗓️ SILS Mocktail Mixer & Merch Madness is happening Wednesday, March 4, from 6:00–7:30 p.m. in Student Union Room 3205.

BSIS students and alumni are invited to network, share career insights, and connect with the SILS community.

Register by March 2: bit.ly/BSISMixer

#UNCSILS

SILS 2025 Staff Accomplishments - School of Information and Library Science We asked them to share one accomplishment from 2025 that they are most proud of, and here is what some of them shared.

Behind every great program are great people. 🎉 Meet the SILS staff whose work and leadership made a difference in 2025.
🔗 Read more: sils.unc.edu/news/sils-20...

#UNCSILS #StaffExcellence #HigherEd

We’re excited to announce the School of Data & Information Sciences, a new school at #UNC, combining SILS & @uncsdss.bsky.social.

The new school expands pathways & accelerates impact in multiple disciplines.

Hear from Dean Ahalt & Interim Dean Kelly: go.unc.edu/NewSchoolName

🗣️ Buffy O’Neill

SILS 2025 Faculty Accomplishments - School of Information and Library Science We asked them to share one accomplishment from 2025 they are most proud of, and here is what some of them shared.

🎉 Celebrating SILS faculty excellence! From award-winning research and major grants to global keynotes and community-engaged scholarship, our faculty made a powerful impact in 2025. 🩵

Read more: buff.ly/kinAdSQ

#UNCSILS #InformationScience #LibraryScience

Graphic promoting SILS Graduate Programs prospective student information sessions. The headline reads “SILS Graduate Programs – Prospective Student Information Sessions.” Dates and times listed are Wednesday, February 18 from 6–7 p.m., Tuesday, March 24 from 3:30–4:30 p.m., and Thursday, April 16 from 6–7 p.m. The graphic says “Learn about…” followed by M.S. in Information Science, M.S. in Library Science, and B.S.–M.S. Dual Pathway. The design features a navy background with a light blue argyle pattern and the UNC School of Information and Library Science logo. A link at the bottom reads go.unc.edu/silsinfosessions.

Ready to explore a graduate degree at SILS? Join us for our February Graduate Programs Info Session on Wednesday, February 18th, 6 – 7 p.m., to learn about the programs and admissions. More sessions will be hosted in March and April.

🔗 Register here: buff.ly/xjdGB0P

#UNCSILS

Graphic congratulating Jared Kohrt for receiving the Rookie of the Year award from the School of Information and Library Science. The design features a portrait photo of Jared Kohrt centered within a blue gradient frame with decorative star accents. Text reads “Congratulations Jared Kohrt” and “Rookie of the Year.” The UNC School of Information and Library Science logo appears at the bottom.

Congratulations to Jared Kohrt, IT support analyst, on receiving the Rookie of the Year SILS Staff Award! As a new member of the SILS community, Jared’s initiative, hard work, and positive contributions have already made a strong impact.

🔗 Learn more about Jared: buff.ly/GZrnqUL

#UNCSILS

UNC School of Information and Library Science. We’re Hiring! CHIP Teaching Assistant Professor. Applications Due March 10th, 2026. Learn more at https://sils.unc.edu/news/chip-teaching-assistant-professor-position-open/ . Photo of the Old Well on UNC campus in the background.

📢 UNC SILS and @chip-unc.bsky.social are hiring!

SILS is now accepting applications for a Teaching Assistant Professor to support the Carolina Health Informatics Program (CHIP).

📅 Apply by March 10, 2026: buff.ly/hPCZv2n

#JobOpening #UNCSILS #Hiring

Graphic congratulating Ben Levine for receiving the Hidden Hero Award from the School of Information and Library Science. The design features a portrait photo of Ben Levine centered inside a blue gradient frame with decorative star accents. Text reads “Congratulations Ben Levine” and “Hidden Hero Award.” The UNC School of Information and Library Science logo appears at the bottom.

Congratulations to Ben Levine, recipient of the SILS Hidden Hero Staff Award! Ben’s support, reliability, and positive attitude make a meaningful impact across SILS. We’re grateful for everything he does behind the scenes!

🔗 Learn more about Ben: buff.ly/SNJv7fE

#StaffAwards #HiddenHero #UNCSILS

Graphic congratulating Jenny Kaselak for receiving the Above and Beyond Award from the School of Information and Library Science. The design features a portrait photo of Jenny Kaselak centered in a blue gradient frame with decorative star accents. Text reads “Congratulations Jenny Kaselak” and “Above and Beyond Award.” The UNC School of Information and Library Science logo appears at the bottom.

Join us in celebrating Jenny Kaselak, winner of the Above and Beyond SILS Staff Award! Jenny’s leadership, cooperation, and dedication set the standard for excellence at SILS, and her professionalism makes a difference every day.

🔗 Learn more about Jenny: buff.ly/S4QX31M

@chip-unc.bsky.social

Graphic promoting SILS Graduate Programs prospective student information sessions. The headline reads “SILS Graduate Programs – Prospective Student Information Sessions.” Dates and times listed are Wednesday, February 18 from 6–7 p.m., Tuesday, March 24 from 3:30–4:30 p.m., and Thursday, April 16 from 6–7 p.m. The graphic says “Learn about…” followed by M.S. in Information Science, M.S. in Library Science, and B.S.–M.S. Dual Pathway. The design features a navy background with a light blue argyle pattern and the UNC School of Information and Library Science logo. A link at the bottom reads go.unc.edu/silsinfosessions.

Thinking about a future in information, libraries, or tech? Join a SILS Graduate Programs Info Session to learn about the M.S. in Information Science, M.S. in Library Science, and the B.S. - M.S. Dual Pathway.

🔗 Register here: buff.ly/bYD1FAK

#UNCSILS #UNCChapelHill

Promotional graphic for Carolina Engagement Week titled “How School Librarians Promote Lifelong Learning.” Text reads: “A panel discussion with alumni from the School of Information & Library Science.” Event details: Monday, February 23, 5–6 p.m., Student Union Room 3206AB, Earn CLE credit. The design features a blue background on the left and a photo on the right of two students sitting at a table with laptops in a library setting, smiling and working together. Decorative square patterns overlay the image.

Curious how school librarians inspire lifelong learning? Join us for a Carolina Engagement Week panel on Monday, February 23rd, 5:00–6:00 p.m. at UNC Student Union (3206AB).

🔗 Register here: buff.ly/8xQo9SM

American Libraries Live | American Libraries Magazine American Libraries Live webcasts cover the full spectrum of library topics and give the ALA community a chance to learn about and discuss issues.

UNC SILS faculty & staff will be panelists in an upcoming American Libraries Live webinar on choosing the right LIS program and specialty. buff.ly/CIb6UW4

🗓 Feb 3 | 2–3 p.m. ET
🔗 Register: buff.ly/xglmpNK

Explore library career pathways!

@amlibraryassoc.bsky.social

New Field Guide Available for Libraries to Prepare to Serve Their Communities During Crises - School of Information and Library Science A new national resource is now available to help libraries prepare for major community emergencies—including pandemics, natural disasters, and societal crises—before they hit. Centering Community:…

We’re proud to spotlight SILS professor Sandra Hughes-Hassell and the Ready NOW team for creating a new national Field Guide that helps libraries prepare to serve their communities during emergencies.

🔗 buff.ly/Mjb8c4S

#UNCSILS

Standing Up for the Freedom to Read - School of Information and Library Science In fall 2025, the School of Information and Library Science (SILS) joined campus partners and community members to reflect on a right central to libraries, education, and democracy: the freedom to…

📚 A look back at how SILS took a stand for the freedom to read!

Last fall, the SILS community came together for a public reading of banned books to highlight the importance of access to information.

🔗 Read the full story: buff.ly/oMSSzB0

#BannedBooksWeek #UNCSILS #FirstAmendmentDay

UPDATE: Due to incoming inclement weather and the potential for power outages, this event has been canceled. We’ll share the rescheduled date as soon as possible.

Nominate a SILS Alum. Rising Star Award & Distinguished Alumni Award. Nominate a mentor, peer, colleague, former student, or even yourself. Deadline: February 28. SILS logo. go.unc.edu/silsalumniawards2026

🌟 Know a SILS alum doing exceptional work or making an early impact? Nominations are open for the SILS Distinguished Alumni Award and Rising Star Award. Nominate a mentor, peer, colleague, former student, or even yourself.
🗓️ Deadline: Feb 28, 2026
🔗 go.unc.edu/silsalumniawards2026
#UNCSILS

“At the heart of both schools is a human-centric approach to the challenges and opportunities for information practitioners.” — Fred Stuzman, PhD ’11 (Information Science), Board of Visitors member and Founder/CEO of Freedom. Photo of Fred.

As SILS moves forward with the new School, we’re sharing perspectives from the community. Here’s a reflection from an alum and Board of Visitors member:

💬 “At the heart of both schools is a human-centric approach to the challenges and opportunities for information practitioners.”
— Fred Stuzman

Finding Your Fit: Exploring Tech and Quantitative Majors at Carolina. Tuesday, Jan. 27, 4 pm, Zoom. Learn about the majors in Information Science, Data Science, Stats and Analytics, and Computer Science. Connect with directors of undergraduate studies in breakout sessions. Go.unc.edu/TechMajorsEvent

Still deciding on a major?

🎓 Finding Your Fit: Exploring Tech & Quantitative Majors
🗓 Jan 27 | 4 PM | Zoom

Connect with directors of undergraduate studies!

Register at go.unc.edu/TechMajorsEvent

@unccs.bsky.social @uncsdss.bsky.social

Event Canceled. SILS invites you to enjoy a cup of tea with Dr. P. Hosted by Dr. Ericka Patillo, Associate Dean for Academics. Wednesday, January 21, 2:30-3:30 p.m., Manning Library. There will be crafts, snacks, and friendly conversation. Event flyer an image of a tea set.

⚠️ UPDATE: EVENT CANCELED
Thank you for your understanding.

Start the semester with a Cup of Tea with Dr. P! 🫖

Join us on Wednesday, January 21, from 2:30–3:30 p.m. in the SILS Library for crafts, snacks, and conversation.

All SILS students, faculty, and staff are welcome!

buff.ly/ljRej7E

“I am enthusiastic about the vision of the new school and the ways it positions library and information science for a vibrant and future-facing role at UNC.” — Marijel (Maggie) Melo, Associate Professor

As SILS moves forward with the new school, we’re sharing perspectives from the community. Here’s one faculty reflection:

💬 “I am enthusiastic about the vision of the new school and the ways it positions library and information science for a vibrant and future-facing role at UNC.” Maggie Melo

Learning from Alumni: SILS Students Visit Cisco in Research Triangle Park - School of Information and Library Science In October, students from the UNC School of Information and Library Science (SILS) visited Cisco in Research Triangle Park (RTP) for a career trek designed to expose them to potential career paths in…

SILS students explore careers at Cisco!

During a fall career trek, students visited Cisco in RTP to tour labs, connect with SILS alumni, and explore how information science skills translate into tech careers.

🔗 Read more: buff.ly/6nivHPw

#SILSCareerTrek #SILS #InformationScience

Photo of four SILS alumni at the NCLA conference. Graphic with argyle design.

This past fall, SILS sent 16 graduate students to the 2025 NCLA Conference to learn, present, and build professional networks across NC libraries. Read more: buff.ly/vYRGrgj

#NCLAConference2025 #UNCSILS

Graphic featuring a headshot of Elliot Kuecker standing in front of a brick wall. The UNC School of Information and Library Science logo appears in the top left. Text on the image reads: “New Publication: ‘If This Book Should Chance to Roam’: the Importance of Children’s Marginalia in Rare Books Collections” by Elliot Kuecker.

📘 A new publication from SILS!

In an RBM article, Dr. Elliott Kuecker and recent SILS grads explore why children’s marginalia in rare books matters for understanding childhood.

🔗 Read the full article: buff.ly/hx7ipGn

#UNCSILS #NewPublication

From Immersive VR to a Safer OR - School of Information and Library Science Every year, approximately 4,000 preventable surgical errors put patients in the U.S at risk. A startup company affiliated with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is using immersive…

How can VR make surgery safer? Dr. Lukasz Mazur (UNC SILS & @chip-unc.bsky.social) is using his startup MaiaZura 🩺 to improve teamwork, reduce clinician burnout, and boost patient safety. Read more: buff.ly/GRaOPb0

#HealthInformatics #UNCSILS

Welcome Back Students! photo of students in front of Manning Hall. UNC SILS division signature/logo.

Welcome back, UNC SILS students! 🎉

Wishing you a great first day of spring classes and a strong start to the semester.

#FDOC #UNCSILS #GoHeels

Fireworks over Kenan Stadium at 2024 graduation.

Happy New Year from UNC SILS 🎉

Grateful for our community and excited for the year ahead. 🩵🐏

#HappyNewYear #UNCSILS #GoHeels

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill held Winter Commencement on December 14, 2025 at the Dean E. Smith Center. Confetti in the air.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill held Winter Commencement on December 14, 2025 at the Dean E. Smith Center. View of the stage and graduates in the audience.

🩵Congratulations, Class of 2025! 🎓

We are proud of our 44 SILS graduates, including @chip-unc.bsky.social grads, and all the Tar Heels who became Carolina Alumni this week. We know you’ll do amazing things! 🐏

#UNCSILS #UNCGrad #UNC25

📸 @uncchapelhill