About
Dr. Naidoo’s work bridges library practice, youth services, and scholarship focused on equity and representation in children’s and young adult media. He is the Director and Foster-EBSCO Endowed Professor at The University of Alabama School of Library and Information Studies, one of four academic units in the College of Communication and Information Sciences.
Dr. Naidoo’s research explores library services to diverse populations and diversity in children’s and YA media across both print and digital formats. He teaches courses in public librarianship, children’s literature, storytelling, and materials and services to children, young adults, families, and culturally diverse communities.
Prior to joining the faculty at the University of Alabama in 2008, Dr. Naidoo served as an assistant professor at the University of South Carolina School of Library and Information Science. There, he taught undergraduate and graduate courses in children’s literature, literacy and library services to Latino communities, and programs and materials for libraries serving young children.
His professional background includes work in both school and public libraries in Alabama, where he served as an elementary school library media specialist and later as coordinator of youth services and children’s librarian.
Impact Beyond the University
In addition to his academic leadership, Dr. Naidoo consults regularly with non-profit and for-profit organizations to develop children’s media and educational curricula that authentically and accurately represent diverse cultural groups. His expertise supports efforts to expand inclusion and cultural authenticity in youth-focused educational resources.
Dr. Naidoo has also held major national leadership roles in the field. He served as the 2018–2019 President of the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) and has served on the boards of directors for both ALSC and the United States Board on Books for Young People (USBBY).
A Commitment to Youth Services and Library Education
In the classroom, Dr. Naidoo emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive librarianship and the role of libraries in serving children, families, and underrepresented communities. Through teaching, mentorship, and professional engagement, he prepares students to develop inclusive programs, collections, and services that reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.