Kimberly R. Lavoie, PhD

Kimberly R. Lavoie, PhD is an educator and researcher in library and information science whose scholarship examines the evolving role of the school librarian, instructional leadership, and digital equity in K–12 education. She currently serves as Interim Coordinator of the School Library Media Program at the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Library and Information Studies, where she teaches graduate-level courses and mentors future school librarians through coursework, field experiences, and licensure pathways.

Dr. Lavoie earned her PhD in Library and Information Science from Simmons University. Her dissertation examined school librarians’ perspectives on their professional roles in post-pandemic K–12 education, focusing on role conceptualization, teaching, leadership, and instructional partnership. Her research examines professional identity, social media for communication and advocacy, and stakeholders’ perspectives on the school librarian’s role in K–12 education.

Prior to entering academia, Dr. Lavoie worked for 15+ years as a librarian at all grade levels in K–12 schools, as well as in medical, academic, and public library settings. This extensive professional experience grounds her teaching, research, and mentorship in practice-based insight. She also holds a Master of Library and Information Science from Simmons University, a Master of Arts in History from Providence College, and a Bachelor of Arts from Boston College.