Hello, and welcome! I’m Mari Meke, a library professional dedicated to creating inclusive, student-centered spaces that foster learning, discovery, and connection.

With over a decade of experience in higher education and a foundation in Library and Information Science and English Literature, I bring both analytical and creative approaches to librarianship. I currently serve as User Services Manager at the University of Florida’s George A. Smathers Libraries (Library West), where I lead a talented team of staff and student assistants focused on exceptional user experiences, equitable access, and collaborative engagement.

My work thrives at the intersection of outreach, instruction, and user services. Whether developing training materials, leading assessment projects, co-authoring library-wide policies, or designing inclusive outreach events like HalloWest and Finals Support Week, I aim to make libraries not only accessible but welcoming and empowering to all.

As a committee chair and collaborator, I’ve co-led the Employee Recognition Committee, Library West Outreach and Student Engagement Committee, and several state and national initiatives through the Florida Association of College and Research Libraries (FACRL), ALA’s Rainbow Roundtable, and YALSA. I am also the recipient of multiple UF Libraries Strategic Opportunities Grants, including Power Word Play and Now You’re Speaking My Language, which advanced inclusion and accessibility through innovative library services.

My professional interests include:

• Inclusive outreach and user engagement

• Access and resource sharing innovations

• Staff mentorship and development

• Digital storytelling and visual communication

• Young adult literature and reader’s advisory

• Belonging in academic spaces

Above all, I believe libraries are dynamic learning environments that evolve through community connection, creativity, and care. My goal as a future faculty librarian is to expand this mission, bridging user services, outreach, and instruction to help students, staff, and faculty reach their fullest potential.