When beginning his studies at Augustana College, Troy Swanson aimed to become a lawyer. However, his experience working in the college library changed his path. Spending extensive time in the library ignited his love for research over legal practice. “I had a realization that I really like the research part but didn’t think I’d enjoy the practice of law part,” Swanson explained. His work-study job in the library felt serendipitous, leading him to a fulfilling career in librarianship.
Over two decades later, Swanson has been recognized as the Illinois Library Association’s Academic Librarian of the Year. He will receive this honor at the association’s annual conference in Peoria from October 6-8.
Swanson is currently the chairman of the Library/Learning Resources Center at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills. He collaborates with faculty to teach students effective research methods and assess credible sources. He also manages public programming at the Sylvia M. Jenkins Library, organizing speaker events and panels, and oversees the library’s website and book collection.
An adjunct professor at Dominican University’s School of Information Studies, Swanson integrates real-world library practices into his teaching. “We bring in the field work practice of what is happening day-to-day in libraries,” he says, highlighting the joy he finds in witnessing students’ learning moments.
Swanson expressed surprise and gratitude upon receiving the award. “I look at the list of names of people who have won it in the past – I know a number of them,” he said. “To have my name listed with them is really special.” He attributes his success in part to working in a supportive library environment.
“I’m hoping I don’t have to give much of a speech!” he joked about the upcoming ceremony.
Terra Jacobson, Swanson’s supervisor and dean of Learning Resources at Moraine Valley, nominated him for the award. Jacobson praised Swanson’s decades-long dedication to leadership and innovation in Illinois’ academic librarianship. “I am glad that his work is being recognized across the state,” she said. The award acknowledges outstanding service and leadership in academic or research libraries in Illinois.
Don Hamerly, director of the library program at Dominican, echoed these sentiments, describing Swanson as an “innovative collaborator” whose care and expertise are well-regarded by students and colleagues alike. Swanson’s efforts in developing new information literacy standards for college students and advocating for library worker rights contribute significantly to his recognition.
Swanson has also been influential at Moraine Valley, where he has served for 27 years. “We work to be a very active and relevant part of the community we serve,” he said. His initiatives include teaching classes, hosting library events, and engaging via podcasts and YouTube streams.
Beyond his college work, Swanson serves as legislative chairman for the Cook County College Teachers’ Union, representing employees across 14 community colleges. He was instrumental in passing HB 1859, ensuring community college courses in Illinois are taught by human professors instead of AI.
Swanson also contributed to the national standards on information literacy as part of a committee with the Association of College and Research Libraries.
Swanson’s recent book, “Knowledge As a Feeling,” explores the intersection of neuroscience, technology, and informational literacy. He encourages others interested in academic librarianship to explore the field, which entails more than merely maintaining bookshelves. “The purpose of a library is to foster ideas in the community you serve,” Swanson stated.
He emphasizes that libraries are dynamic environments that foster growth and learning beyond the physical space, playing an essential role on college campuses.
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