Systems & Digital Collections Librarian Sarah Almond
Sarah Almond brings extensive experience into her newly appointed role as the systems & digital collections librarian. After serving as a visiting librarian and project manager for the American Congress Digital Archives Portal for 3 years, she developed expertise in digital archives, metadata, repository systems, and Samvera-based platforms that will help advance West Virginia University Libraries’ digital collections.
“In the almost three years that I have been working as a visiting librarian at WVU, I’ve seen many changes and growth. Being able to observe WVU Libraries as an iterative, growing institution has given me even greater respect and admiration for the ranks that I am joining, particularly with regards to digital initiatives,” said Systems & Digital Collections Librarian Sarah Almond.
In her new role, Almond will lead the management and enhancement of technologies that support the discovery, access, and long-term preservation of the Libraries' digital collections. Her work will focus on improving digital systems, streamlining workflows, and expanding access to archival and digital resources for researchers and the broader WVU community.
She holds a Master of Science in Library Science (MLS) with a concentration in Archives & Records Management from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Arts in Public History from North Carolina State University.
Scholarly Communications Librarian Ebony Martin
Ebony Martin brings years of experience in a variety of roles at WVU Libraries, most recently as Access Services Desk Supervisor. Her work has provided her with a strong understanding of students' research needs and the barriers they encounter, shaping her approach to scholarly communications. Throughout her time at the Libraries, she has supported the WVU Research Repository and developed expertise in digital preservation, outreach, and patron support, including extensive work with the Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETD) program.
“Working in Access Services presented me with the opportunity to have daily interactions with faculty and students that gave me a very clear understanding of their user needs and frustrations. I have really enjoyed the social aspect of my work so far, and I see the outreach aspects of this job as a great way to connect with faculty and the different University partners across campus,” said Scholarly Communications Librarian EbonyMartin.
In her new role, Martin will support the WVU Research Repository, expand the Libraries' publishing initiatives, and promote Open Educational Resources and open scholarship. She will also work with faculty, researchers, and students to increase access to scholarship, provide guidance on copyright and publishing, and develop workshops and educational programs that support research across the University.
She holds a Master of Arts in History from WVU and will earn her Master of Science in Library Science from Pennsylvania Western University in August 2026.