Brittany Norwood, Policy and International Affairs Librarian: Q&A

Photo credit: Brandon Johnson.

In November 2023, Brittany Norwood joined Princeton University Library (PUL) as the Policy and International Affairs Librarian. Norwood’s work centers on student belonging and transferable information literacies. She is committed to teaching researchers not only how to utilize the resources at hand but also how to think critically and creatively about information. Her research focuses on how information spreads within and across social networks, with a specific focus on the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and conspiracy theories.

Before joining PUL, Norwood served as a Visiting Research Services Librarian at Washington & Lee University, where she assisted students with senior research projects and independent studies. While at Washington & Lee, she also developed collections in the Social Sciences, Journalism, and Theater, created student-success focus events, taught discipline-specific and first-year library instruction, piloted collection development approval plans, and laid the groundwork for the library’s Miranda Collection which focuses on collecting works created by authors, researchers, creatives, and scientists who identify as Native or Indigenous. At Stokes, Norwood intends to "encourage the development of critical and transferable information literacies among SPIA students and researchers.”

Can you tell us about your role as Policy and International Affairs Librarian? 

The bulk of my role is to assist students with their public policy and international affairs research in SPIA. I’m always happy to schedule a consultation to help students with their projects, whether they need help finding specific sources or want more general guidance on how to find and use the resources and tools the library has to offer. SPIA students may also see me pop by their classes from time to time to tell them more about conducting Library research.

Is there a specific area of this role you’re drawn to? 

I adore puzzles and learning new things, so the research consultations I just mentioned are definitely something I love! Outside of that, I’m particularly interested in the practical applications of the program I serve, and am intrinsically drawn to those who want to help make the world a better place—something I see in the students I serve.

Are there any pieces in our collection that you are particularly interested in?

My favorite book is Terry Pratchett’s "Guards! Guards!" so when I saw that Special Collections has the publishing files for it, I was extremely excited! But, as any book-lover and collector will tell you, this answer is subject to change. There are just too many fabulous options.

What types of students and researchers do you hope to serve in this role? 

I’m truly passionate about making sure students and researchers feel supported and empowered in their research, so I’m excited to work with everyone!

What are your goals for your first year at PUL?

My main goal is to meet as many people as possible and make sure they know I’m available to help. I’m planning on implementing some open office hours this semester (location to be determined) so that students with research questions can just stop by the table I’m working at to check-in.

Published on February 6, 2024

Interview by Brandon Johnson, Communications Strategist

Media Contact: Stephanie Oster, Publicity Manager