J Armstrong

J Armstrong serves as the Access Services Librarian and Digital Reserves Manager & Strategist for the Harvard Library system, overseeing the Access Services Unit at the Frances Loeb Design Library and the Digital Course Reserves Unit based at Widener Library. In this dual role, she leads a dedicated team responsible for delivering seamless access to library resources, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all users. Her work supports the academic and research needs of the Harvard community, ensuring equitable access to resources and services across multiple library locations.

J's core responsibilities include managing and enhancing digital course reserves operations, developing and implementing innovative digitization workflows, and advancing digital accessibility initiatives to support patrons with diverse needs. She works closely with library liaisons to facilitate outreach to faculty and instructional staff, driving the integration of library services into the teaching and learning environment. Her leadership extends to overseeing the Centralized Digital Reserves team, which includes the FAS Reserves Coordinator, Digital Reserves Onsite Operations Coordinator, and specialists focused on accessibility and digital content remediation.

As a member of the Access Services Extended Leadership Team, J actively contributes to strategic planning, service development, and cross-unit collaboration to enhance library operations. She leads initiatives to improve course reserves workflows, utilizing tools like Jira for efficient workflow management and service delivery. Her commitment to digital accessibility is demonstrated through her work in developing workflows for PDF accessibility remediation, ensuring compliance with current regulations and best practices.

J has a strong background in academic libraries, with extensive experience in managing access services and course reserves. She is known for her problem-solving skills, innovative approach to workflow optimization, and ability to foster a culture of continuous learning and inclusion. J holds a Master of Arts in Social, Political, Ethical, and Legal Philosophy from the State University of New York at Binghamton and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Anthropology, with a minor in Biology, from the Cook Honors College at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

For assistance with digital course reserves, accessibility, or any aspect of library access services, J welcomes you to reach out.