Interviewer
Ron Chepesiuk
Files
Abstract
This interview was conducted by Ron Chepesiuk with Nancy Jane Day on January 24, 1985, concerning libraries in South Carolina. Day discusses her career in librarianship, beginning with her work as a teacher in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and her subsequent training in library science at Columbia University. She describes her work in high school libraries, including at Richard J. Reynolds High School, and her positions at Furman University, Greenville Public Library, and a college library in Florida. She later returned to South Carolina to teach library science at Winthrop College and Emory University before becoming the first Supervisor of Library Services for the South Carolina State Department of Education, a position she held from 1946 until 1970.
Day discusses the development and improvement of school libraries in South Carolina during her tenure with the State Department of Education. She describes efforts to establish elementary school libraries throughout the state, improve high school library programs, and develop standards for school libraries. She credits federal funding with making it possible to expand library collections and meet higher standards. Day also discusses efforts to promote greater understanding of the role of school libraries in supporting students and teachers and the development of library supervision programs.
The interview addresses Day’s involvement with library science education, including her work with Winthrop’s undergraduate library program and the development of graduate-level library education. She also discusses teaching library science in Bangkok, Thailand, in 1953–1954. Day reflects on her retirement activities, including her work with the Retired Educators of South Carolina, and offers thoughts on the future of libraries and the increasing use of automation. She emphasizes the importance of allowing newer generations of librarians to develop and implement new ideas and approaches to librarianship.
Publication Date
1-24-1985
Unique Identifier
OH 188
Format
1 Cassette; MP3; WAV;
Length
00:06:55
Restrictions
Open under the rules and regulations of the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections at Winthrop University
Keywords
Librarian, South Carolina State Department of Education
Recommended Citation
Day, Nancy Jane, "Interview with Nancy Jane Day - OH 188" (1985). Winthrop University Oral History Program. OH 188.
https://digitalcommons.winthrop.edu/oralhistoryprogram/64
LC Subject Headings
South Carolina. State Department of Education. Library Services -- Officials and employees, Librarians -- South Carolina