Welcome Dr Kay Oddone, QSLA Patron

We’re proud to announce Dr Kay Oddone as the inaugural Patron of QSLA. A passionate advocate for school libraries, Kay brings extensive experience and ongoing commitment to the profession. We’re honoured to have her support.

I’m really pleased to take on the role of inaugural patron of the Queensland School Library Association (QSLA). As a proud Queenslander, it’s a privilege to support an association that recognises and advocates for the critical role school libraries and library staff play in supporting teachers and students to enhance learning and wellbeing.

My career in education spans more than 25 years, and throughout that time I’ve worked across a wide range of contexts—from classroom teacher and teacher librarian, to Assistant Principal, Head of Libraries, and now Course Director of the Master of Education (Teacher Librarianship) at Charles Sturt University. At every step, I’ve seen the impact that qualified, passionate school library professionals can and do have within and beyond their school communities.

I completed my PhD at Queensland University of Technology, supervised by Associate Professor Hilary Hughes and Dr Mandy Lupton, exploring how educators grow and share their expertise through personal learning networks. That research continues to influence how I think about collaboration, leadership, and the role of digital technologies in education. My current research investigates how emerging technologies like AI influence the development of critical information skills, shape academic integrity practices, and transform the role of libraries in education.

Whether it’s presenting at conferences, working with international colleagues, or having a great conversation with a school library team, I’ve always found joy in being part of this professional community. Becoming QSLA’s patron is a great honour, and I look forward to working with an association that continues to demonstrate such commitment, creativity and care, especially in challenging times.