LSU librarian Sarah Simms has always worked alongside books.
After earning her master’s degree in library and information science from LSU, Simms felt something was missing from her life: a true passion.
“I really wanted to work in a library,” Simms said. “My first library job was as a serial librarian at Nicholls State University, where I oversaw journal subscriptions. But sometimes I had the opportunity to teach information literacy classes — and that’s when I discovered my true passion.”
It led Simms to the LSU Libraries, where she has worked since 2017 as the undergraduate and student success team lead. The Baltimore native sees the job as more than cataloging or references. It’s all about the connection Simms makes with students.
That’s what made the position at LSU so ideal for Simms. It combined her love for the library and her calling to assist with student success.
“I was a first-generation student at a large university and honestly, I really struggled my first two years trying to figure out what it meant ‘to college,’” Simms said. “I want to help students who might be feeling that same way, especially when it comes to research and navigating the vast information landscape.”
That large university was Boston University, where Simms graduated in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in international relations. She earned a master’s of library and information science from the Palmer School at Long Island University in 2010.
Simms moved to Louisiana in 2013, where she has served the community since.
A librarian recognized for leadership
Simm’s impact on student leadership was recently recognized statewide. She won the 2025 Louisiana Library Association award for outstanding librarianship in March. The award honored her leadership, collaboration and innovative teaching style.
“Winning this award meant the world to me,” Simms said. “I work with colleagues across this state who are incredible and doing amazing work, so to be recognized alongside folks like that is a huge professional milestone and point of pride.”
Simms leads a team of instruction librarians whose priority is helping first- and second-year students improve their information literacy skills in core classes. She is also in charge of the program in the libraries that explains teaching methods to students and provides a support system for librarians to grow simultaneously.
“As we grow as teachers, we benefit our students through improved instruction methods,” Simms said. “That’s really the goal.”
Helping students experience breakthroughs
Simms’ days are never the same. Whether she is teaching in a classroom or working one-on-one with students, Simms said her favorite part of her job is watching students experience breakthroughs in their research.
“The most gratifying thing I find about my job is what I call the ‘A-Ha’ moment,” Simms said. “It’s that instant when the lightbulb goes off — when a student finds the right source, or realizes how to make their topic more manageable. It’s exciting to see them find their voice through the research process.”
Simms’ approach emphasizes creativity and confidence in exploration.
“I work hard to inspire students’ creativity when it comes to research,” Simms said. “I want them to see that research isn’t just about finding facts- it’s about curiosity.”
Hidden gems in LSU Libraries
Simms had a few resources that students often overlook that she says they should take advantage of.
“Our LSU librarians are hands-down the best resource available to students,” Simms said. “You can make appointments with subject librarians to get help with your research, find sources, learn search strategies or understand what makes a source credible.”
Simms also recommended the online research guides which are available 24/7. They are a collection of recommended sources and strategies for specific classes and disciplines. Simms said they are a great way for students to get started with their research.
If students are working with limited time, Simms explained how last-minute help is still possible.
“If you’ve only got 15 minutes before a deadline, use the Discovery Search on the library homepage,” she said. “It searches many of our databases at once and helps you narrow results fast.”
As future conversations of AI and information literacy evolve, Simms believes librarians are more vital than ever.
“Librarians have always helped students evaluate and navigate information,” Simms said. “The addition of AI is just the newest chapter in that work. Our role will continue to be helping students think critically about the tools and sources they use.”
Simms predicts that within the next decade, academic librarianship will evolve into something powerful based on adaptability, collaboration and student-centered service.
“Librarians are very good at adapting to the rapid changes we encounter,” Simms said. “I foresee our role becoming even more important as we continue to provide our services in this rapidly changing information landscape.”
More than anything, Simms stresses that students should know that the library is their partner in success. Her staff and other librarians are always around to help with what students may need.
“LSU Libraries is truly invested in students’ academic success,” Simms said. “That’s reflected in our study spaces, our programs, our workshops and our team of subject-specialist librarians ready to help. We’re here for you every step of your research journey.”
Students can connect with Simms and other LSU Librarians by visiting lib.lsu.edu or scheduling a research consultation online.
