BRASS Excellence in Business Librarianship sponsored by LSEG Data & Analytics names it’s 2026 Winner – Ilana Stonebraker, Head, Sciences and Social Sciences Head, Business/SPEA Library Librarian, Indiana University, Bloomington
“Ever since I walked into my first BRASS discussion as a grad student, my life has never been the same. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such an amazing group of business librarians who work every day to make the business world more information literate. In a time of rapid economic change and uncertainty, helping students, researchers, and professionals navigate complex information is more important than ever. As Peter Drucker famously said, “The greatest danger in times of turbulence is not the turbulence—it is to act with yesterday’s logic.” The work we do helps people find the information they need to make better decisions in a changing world.
I’m especially grateful to the librarians who wrote letters of support: Wendy Pothier, Celia Ross, Steve Cramer, Heather Howard, Sarah LeMire, LuMarie Guth, Anna Marie Johnson, and Morgan Ritchie Baum. I’m deeply thankful for their support and proud to be part of this incredible BRASS community.” – Ilana Stonebraker
“Ilana Stonebraker, through her research, publishing, teaching and collaborative spirt is noted for making a positive impact on the world around her and has distinguished herself as a business librarian and leader.
The award committee members were very impressed with the recommendations that were submitted on Ilana’s behalf. Her dedication to student success, entrepreneurial initiatives, community partnerships, and mentorship is clear in her history of work and contributions to the field.” – Award Committee statement
Ilana’s scholarship is widely cited in business librarianship literature, illustrating “her ability to elevate the theoretical and the practical while addressing real-world challenges.” Ilana’s strong leadership and service to the profession is demonstrated by her progressively responsible roles in ALA, including as BRASS Chair in 2020, and RUSA President in 2024. She is also known for mentoring and supporting numerous graduate students and colleagues. Her strong involvement in the Purdue Teaching Academy and her recognition as recipient of the Purdue Libraries Excellence in Teaching Award speaks to her passion for teaching and how much she is valued by her students. Her commitment to the profession, to the many faculty, students, and colleagues who benefit from her knowledge and generosity for sharing, speaks to Ilana’s joy for our professional community and the meaningful connections and contributions we make.
The BRASS Excellence in Business Librarianship Award selection committee was chaired by Susan Klopper.
“We are truly honored to offer our congratulations to Ilana Stonebraker for being recognized by receiving this year’s BRASS Award for Excellence in Business Librarianship. Having worked with Ilana for many years across various roles, we know that this is a well‑earned honor. Her dedication to collaborating with colleagues and consistently focusing on student and faculty outcomes is inspirational. The positive impact of her leadership is clearly felt. It’s a privilege to partner with Ilana, and we look forward to seeing the many new things that come from that partnership. We applaud this achievement. Congratulations, again, Ilana.” – Brenna Smeall, Director, Academic and Research Sales, LSEG Data & Analytics