Meet the Research Team
RURL project is made up of the research team, participating libraries (one in Texas and one in Alabama) and library staff, participants and an advisory board.
Sarah A. Evans (She/Her)
Sarah A. Evans, Ph.D., MLIS, is Assistant Professor of Children's and Young Adult Librarianship in the College of Information at the University of North Texas, where she also serves as Co-Director of the Multiple Literacies Lab. Her research examines the literacies and identities taken up in voluntary learning experiences. Her favorites sites of research are public libraries and fandom gatherings. Since 1999, Dr. Evans has worked for and with libraries, including as a public library branch manager, collection development librarian, middle school teacher-librarian, and now as a researcher. Throughout her career, she has served in the American Library Association and its subdivisions, most frequently in the Young Adult Library Services Association. Dr. Evans holds a bachelor's degree in Drama, a master's of Library and Information Science, and a doctorate of philosophy in Learning Sciences from the University of Washington, as well as an elementary education certificate from Western Washington University. Her favorite podcasts are Unobscured with Aaron Mahnke and Midsomer Maniacs.
Lance Simpson (He/Him)
Lance Simpson is a Research and Instructional Services Librarian with Rodgers Library for Science and Engineering. He holds a bachelor's degree in English (Creative Writing Focus) and Spanish from Berry College in Rome, GA, and a Master of Library and Information Studies from The University of Alabama. His work in academic libraries includes research and reference assistance for students and faculty, providing software/coding workshops, and information and data literacy instruction. Before coming to academic libraries, Lance worked in public libraries where he developed programs for teens that included collaborations for spoken word poetry workshops, 3D-design and printing, and programming with robotics. Lance has always loved radio, and his absolute favorite podcasts include This American Life and Switched on Pop. His creative interests include the lyric essay, Roots Rock and Americana music, and being outside as much as possible. He loves citizen science, and is a proud weather weenie.
Christy Stanley (She/Her)
Christy Stanley is a research assistant for the RURL project with the University of Alabama, where she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Instructional Leadership with a concentration in Instructional Technology. Her research focuses on the use of technology in education and the importance of removing barriers of access for online learners. She has worked in higher education for 18 years, with over 13 years of experience working specifically within the field of instructional technology. Christy obtained an MEd in Instructional Design and Technology from George Mason University, an Executive MBA from Troy University, and a BS in Business Administration from Auburn University. Her favorite podcast is How I Built This with Guy Raz.