About
A Tuscaloosa native, Dr. Yates’s work bridges school librarianship, educational leadership, and professional advocacy. He is a past president of the American Association of School Librarians and plays a central role in preparing future school library media specialists.
At the School of Library and Information Studies, Dr. Yates coordinates the School Library Media certification program, guiding students toward professional practice and leadership in K–12 library settings.
Impact Beyond the University
Dr. Yates also serves as an affiliate faculty member in the College of Education’s Department of Educational Leadership, Policy, and Technology Studies. In this role, he is the program coordinator for the School Library Media Specialist concentration within the Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership, strengthening collaboration between library science and educational leadership programs.
A Commitment to School Librarianship and Educational Leadership
Through his leadership, teaching, and program coordination, Dr. Yates supports the development of school librarians as instructional leaders, advocates, and change agents within educational communities. His work reflects a deep commitment to advancing the role of school libraries in student learning and professional practice at both the state and national levels.