Stephanie Maatta Smith (better known as Dr. Maatta)  teaches in the core curriculum in SLIS, including LIS 6010 Introduction to the Information Professions. The overarching focus of her teaching and research promotes a philosophy of universal access and inclusivity for clientele of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. Dr. Maatta received her MLS and PhD degrees from Florida State University, and taught at Florida State University School of Information and University of South Florida School of Library & Information Science for several years. Her research interests center on creating information environments that are accessible to all, and educating professionals to reduce the barriers and limitations impairing universal access to information. Dr. Maatta is the co-Principal Investigator, with Dr. Laurie Bonnici at the University of Alabama School of Library and Information Studies, of an IMLS Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program grant. Dr. Maatta is also the author of the Library Journal's annual "Placements and Salaries Surveys."

Degrees and Certifications

Ph.D., Library & Information Studies, Florida State University

M.S., Library & Information Studies, Florida State University

B.A., English, Michigan State University

Research Title

Research Project

Project ALFA is funded through the Institute for Museum and Library Services, Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Grant Program. Project ALFA is founded on a philosophy of universal access and inclusivity. It is designed to develop a new generation of highly skilled information professionals to work with clientele of diverse backgrounds, abilities, and age.

As part of Project ALFA's service learning activities a group of ALFA fellows will be conducting a needs assessment related to accessiblity and ADA compliance for the Baldwin Public Library (Birmingham, MI) in fall 2012.

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