She/Her

Bobbi Newman is the Community Engagement and Outreach Manager for the Network of the National Library of Medicine, Region 6, based at the University of Iowa Libraries. She leads national efforts to build partnerships with public libraries to improve access to reliable health information. With a strong focus on equity and inclusion, she has developed and led national symposia addressing health misinformation, library staff wellness, and community health outreach.

She holds dual Master’s degrees in Information Resources and Library Science (University of Arizona) and Political Science with a minor in Journalism and Mass Communication (Iowa State University) and a Graduate Certificate in Public Management. Bobbi is a certified wellness practitioner, project manager, and instructional designer specializing in creating engaging, learner-focused programs across formats.  

Her career spans public, academic, and special libraries, including roles in digital services and strategic leadership. She is the architect of innovative programs such as the “Wellness in the Library Workplace” course and the co-lead on initiatives like the Promoting Healthy Communities partnership with the Public Library Association. Bobbi is a frequent presenter and author on digital literacy, health information, well-being, and community engagement. She has served on numerous national committees, including those with the American Library Association, the Public Library Association, OCLC, Pew Research, National Information Standards Organization (NISO), and the Insitute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Driven by a passion for equity, collaboration, and personal growth, Bobbi brings a maximizer mindset to her work—seeking to turn strengths into excellence in every project she leads.