Hi. I'm Dr. Becnel, a Professor of Library Science and Director of the MLIS program in Public and Academic Libraries. I'm a former children's librarian and public library youth services manager, and I now have the privilege of passing on my love for libraries and literature to students in the MLS program at App
State. I regularly teach courses in public libraries, organization of information, foundations of library science, and literature for youth, teens, and adults. 

My research interests are wide-ranging and, for the moment, include intellectual freedom and censorship; youth literature; graphic novels; social and emotional learning; and public library services and management. I enjoy serving as a reviewer for several journals and on professional committees at the state and national levels. The best part of my work, though, is getting to know our students and helping to prepare them for the rewarding careers they've been dreaming of.  

If you have questions about the program, the classes I teach, or my research, please reach out to me at becnelke@appstate.edu