Gerald Lawson Gill has significantly contributed to the field of library science in a career spanning four decades. Today, his contributions are being celebrated with his inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who, a testament to his enduring impact on the profession, particularly in establishing the business section of the American Library.
Born to George and Marjorie Gill in Montgomery, Alabama, Gill’s journey into library science began unexpectedly during his freshman year at the University of Georgia. A career aptitude test revealed his highest interest score in library science, alongside strong aptitudes for journalism, physics, and mathematics. This discovery set him on a path that would define his professional life.
“I was surprised to discover I was most qualified to become a librarian,” Gill recalls of his early career assessment. “That test opened my eyes to a profession that would become my life’s work and passion.”
After earning a Bachelor of Arts in History, Philosophy, and Religion from the University of Georgia in 1971, Gill pursued his Master of Arts in Library Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, completing it in 1973. His academic journey laid the foundation for a career spanning various roles at James Madison University from 1974 to 2010.
From Unexpected Beginnings to Library Science Leadership
Throughout Gill’s tenure at James Madison University, he served in numerous capacities, including cataloger, instructor, reference librarian, business reference librarian, government documents librarian, and head of reference and government documents. He progressed from instructor to professor, ultimately being honored with the title of Professor Emeritus upon his retirement in 2010.
Gill’s expertise and leadership extended beyond the university. He held diverse positions within professional organizations, including secretary of the law and political science section, chairman of the business reference services committee, and chairman of the business reference services discussion group for the American Library Association. He also served as treasurer and president for the Virginia chapter of the Special Librarians Association.
“I’ve always been sensitive to the needs of groups or individuals and am effective at assessing how to meet those needs,” Gill states, reflecting on his approach to leadership and service. “This sensitivity has guided my work throughout my career, whether in day-to-day responsibilities or more far-reaching professional outreach.”
Enhancing Academic Libraries and Professional Associations
Gill’s most significant achievement, considered as the highlight of his career, was establishing the business section of the American Library Association. This initiative grew to include more than 700 librarians, providing valuable contacts, business information, and resources while becoming a source of inspiration for many in the field.
In recognition of his contributions, Gill received the Business Librarianship Excellence Award and the Gale Research Award from the American Library Association in 1991. He was also inducted into the Phi Beta Delta Honor Society for International Scholars in 2007.
Gill has also been an active community member, serving as president and board member of the Minor Hill Manorhomes Home Owners Association. Moreover, he established himself as an author, co-authoring articles in professional journals and reviewing texts for the American Reference Books Annual.
Since 2016, Gill has been an active member of the Democratic National Committee, continuing to apply his skills in assessing and meeting the needs of different groups and individuals. He also remains involved in his field as a consultant, lecturer, and speaker for engagements sponsored by both national and regional organizations.
“My proudest professional moment was establishing the business section of the American Library Association,” Gill concludes. “Providing resources to over 700 librarians and inspiring others in the field has been incredibly fulfilling.”
As he enjoys his well-earned retirement alongside his wife, Andrea, Gill’s legacy continues to shape library science. His career attests to the results of quiet effectiveness and the profound impact one individual can have on an entire profession.
