Donovan Odaniel

Background

About Donovan Odaniel

I am a librarian and archivist with a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) and over four years of professional experience in public libraries, archives, and cultural heritage institutions. My background bridges archival processing, metadata creation, and digital collections management with supervision, programming, and public service in library settings. As a Graduate Archives Intern with the Christiansburg Institute, I enhanced metadata for digital archival collections, created workflows to improve discoverability, and supported community engagement projects. In my role as Senior Library Assistant with Roanoke County Library, I supervise staff, oversee daily operations, and contribute to system-wide committees on policy, programming, and collection development. I am passionate about making information accessible and meaningful. My professional values center on equitable access, diversity of perspectives, and the role of libraries as vital public spaces for learning and community connection. I enjoy collaborating across departments and disciplines, mentoring colleagues, and designing innovative services and programs for diverse audiences. Areas of focus and interest: Archival processing and description Digital collections, metadata standards, and discovery Public library leadership and staff supervision Instruction, outreach, and community programming Digital preservation and born-digital workflows