FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY
Hi there! I’m Lawrence J. Mello, Jr., though you can just call me the Gov. Docs. Librarian at the S.E. Wimberly Library, Florida Atlantic University. My path to this role has been anything but typical—shaped by a mix of military service, academic adventures, and a genuine passion for helping others navigate the often-confusing world of government information.
Before I found my calling in the library world, I served as a Navigational Electronics Technician in the U.S. Navy aboard the Trident Submarine USS Henry M. Jackson. My time in the Navy, especially earning my Submariner Warfare Pin, taught me lessons in professionalism, discipline, and teamwork that I bring to FAU every day.
On the academic side, I earned a Master of Library and Information Science with a focus on E-Government and Digital Government from the University of Maryland. I also hold a master’s and a bachelor’s degree in history from FAU—my alma mater. These experiences deepened my love for historical context and gave me the tools to dive deep into analyzing and interpreting government documents.
At FAU Libraries, I lead the Government Information and Maps Department. Our mission? To promote democracy by ensuring everyone in our community has access to our vital resources, from federal and state documents to maps and government datasets. I’m especially passionate about making these resources accessible and helping students, faculty, and our local community find exactly what they need.
As a subject liaison to departments like History, Political Science, Communication & Multimedia, Sociology, Urban & Regional Planning, and Criminal Justice, I enjoy collaborating with faculty and students to support their research needs. Additionally, I serve as the library liaison to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), allowing me to connect academic insights with real-world applications.
My interests in librarianship include government information access, digital literacy, and fostering partnerships between government agencies and academic libraries. I’ve had the opportunity to share my knowledge through book reviews and conference presentations, focusing on topics such as e-government and reference services.
At FAU Libraries, we are committed to empowering our community through access to government information. I believe informed citizens are the backbone of a healthy democracy. I’m here to help everyone make the most of their available resources. After all, as Thomas Paine said, “Democracy is not just a right; it is a responsibility.” I’m excited to play a part in fostering that responsibility and helping others engage with the information that shapes our society.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance!
