Courtney Johnt: The Newest Face in the Library

By: Madison Howard, Assistant Features Editor

A new face has recently joined the library staff, though students may not have had the chance to meet her yet. Courtney Johnt, the new student success librarian, has joined the library staff with a focus on supporting students academically and helping create a more welcoming and accessible environment on campus. In her role, she works to connect students with resources, answer questions and encourage a more supportive experience within the library.

Johnt graduated from Canisius University with a bachelor’s degree in history and political science. She explained that her interest in libraries developed from her love of learning and her enjoyment of helping others grow academically. She described libraries as spaces that naturally support curiosity and education, which aligns closely with her own values. “I love learning and really enjoy the concept of helping encourage others to learn.”

In her position as student success librarian, Johnt works with a focus in public services to assist students with navigating academic resources, getting support and engaging with library services. She noted that parts of her role are still developing as the library continues to assess student needs and improve services. She emphasized that understanding student experiences is an important part of shaping how the library moves forward.

A major focus of Johnt’s approach is ensuring that students feel comfortable and supported when using the library. She encourages students to reach out and start conversations whenever they need help, whether it is related to assignments, resources or general support. “Just reach out or talk to me,” she said. “If there are problems that are coming up, whether it’s they don’t know how to accomplish something or they need somebody to be put in contact with stuff, let’s start that conversation.”

She also stressed that asking questions should not feel stressful or intimidating; Johnt emphasized that uncertainty is a normal part of learning and that the library is intended to be a space where students feel safe seeking help. “It’s okay not to know. We love learning here, and we encourage it, so any question is just curiosity. There’s no stress associated with it.”

Outside of her professional role, Johnt shared that she enjoys reading, hiking and spending time in the sun. She also mentioned her puppy, Finn, who she described as an important part of her life. 

She reflected on her connection to Canisius University, where she completed her undergraduate degree, noting that returning to the institution felt meaningful. “I feel like I owe a lot to Canisius for really being able to grow me as a person,” she said. Looking ahead, Johnt hopes to strengthen student engagement within the library and continue building a space that feels welcoming and active for the campus community. She also wants to work on increasing opportunities for students to connect with reading outside of academic work.

Library of Things Survey

Leisure Reading Survey

Toward the end of the interview, Johnt highlighted current student surveys focused on potential updates to the leisure reading collection and the “Library of Things,” which allows students to borrow non-traditional items in addition to books. She emphasized that student feedback from these surveys will help guide future improvements in the library. Additionally, Johnt shared an interest in starting a student book club in Fall 2026. Students who are interested in participating or learning more can contact her at johntc@canisius.edu.