Library of Congress professional Colleen Rodgers ’27 advances toward collections roles with ODU’s flexible online MLIS program.
Colleen Rodgers ’27 has already worked in the halls of the largest library in the world.
But the program specialist at the Library of Congress isn’t treating that achievement as a finish line.
Rodgers enrolled in ODU's online Master’s in Library and Information Studies program in 2025 to deepen her expertise and keep learning.
“I’m so excited to see where the MLIS degree will take me throughout my career at the Library of Congress,” said Rodgers, who grew up in Northern Virginia and started working at the library in 2023.
Her path follows the example set by her father, Phillip Rodgers, whose 40-year public service career included the U.S. Navy and civil service at the Department of Defense.
“He dealt with the joys and frustrations of government bureaucracy with grace and care,” Rodgers said. “He was widely respected as an even-keeled operator able to negotiate with multiple stakeholders to accomplish the mission at hand. I hope to hone his same aptitude for strong, steady leadership as I continue in my career as a civil servant like him.”
Her father’s service also opened doors to education. Through him, Rodgers qualified for the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program, one of the ways ODU supports its more than 7,000 military-affiliated students each year. In 2024-25, 1,561 students used the program.
For Rodgers, that support cleared the way to deepen her studies.
Rodgers earned a bachelor’s in history and American studies and a master’s in American studies from William & Mary. After moving to Washington to pursue museum work, she joined the Library of Congress in the Health Services Division, which provides health and wellness services to library employees. She enjoys the administrative side of her role, but her humanities background has inspired her to move into collections-focused work.
ODU’s MLIS program is giving Rodgers the practical tools to make the transition, while allowing her to remain in the heart of the nation’s capital. Courses in library management, collection maintenance and information behavior are preparing her for new roles. Clear expectations from faculty help her plan and meet deadlines during peak work periods. She has also completed experiential assignments that took her into local libraries, helping her explore institutions she might not have visited and make community connections.
“Curiosity is one of her standout strengths—this is an excellent mindset for a librarian,” MLIS Lecturer Lindy Brown said. “She is always engaged, quick to respond, and brings thoughtfulness and enthusiasm to everything she does. Her eagerness to learn reflects the lifelong learning valued in the profession.”
Ultimately, Rodgers said the coursework will prepare her to succeed in any new role she receives at the Library of Congress.
Graduate study has not required Rodgers to put life on hold. She still cooks, reads for fun and spends time with friends.
"Had it not been for online learning, I would have had to make major life changes to pursue an MLIS," Rodgers said. “ODU’s asynchronous program has allowed me to continue working full time while I complete my coursework on the side. I haven’t had to compromise the life I have already been living.”
Ready to take your next step in librarianship? Explore Old Dominion University’s online Master of Library and Information Studies and see how flexible, high-quality coursework fits your life.
