Cataloging the Culture

About Cataloging the Culture

The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented.

Publisher

Dayton Metro Library

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

21 May 2025

Latest episode

11 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   11 Sept 2026

   Episode 15 - Rodney Freeman

   Rodney Freeman is a seasoned library professional with over 15 years of experience across academic, public, and government libraries. His expertise spans digital collections, databases, and taxonomy, beginning with a focus on digital archives and evolving into roles ranging from library page to administrator. As the founder of Reminisce Preservation, Rodney empowers libraries, schools, nonprofits, and individuals by offering innovative tools and networks to facilitate the creation, interaction, and preservation of legacies. His work reflects a passion for connecting communities with the resources to safeguard their histories.The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.DaytonMetroLibrary.org/CatalogingCulture/

2. 

   8 Sept 2026

   Episode 14 - Eric Chapman

   Eric Chapman is a rising junior at Chaminade Julienne High School with a passion for computer science and engineering. This summer, he completed an eight-week internship with Montgomery County’s Ohio Means Job YouthWorks program — here at Dayton Metro Library, where he served as a Library Aide and gained hands-on experience supporting library services and the community. Eric enjoys exploring technology and looks forward to pursuing opportunities that combine innovation, problem-solving, and service.The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.DaytonMetroLibrary.org/CatalogingCulture/

3. 

   4 Sept 2026

   Episode 13 - Tony McCleskey

   Tony McCleskey began his Dayton Metro Library career at the age of 16 as a Library Aide at the Electra C. Doren Branch in Old North Dayton after a childhood spent there as an enthusiastic library patron. There, Tony learned he loved working with the community and helping out the environment around him. He later moved to the Main Library, joining the circulation department, where he helped with displays and other circulation duties. Tony has also served as a co-chair of DML’s Black Heritage Committee, leading Juneteenth programs. The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.DaytonMetroLibrary.org/CatalogingCulture/

4. 

   21 Aug 2026

   Episode 12 - Felton Thomas Jr.

   Felton Thomas, Jr. leads one of the nation’s largest and most respected metropolitan library systems. Under Thomas’ leadership, CPL has embarked on an ambitious 10-year Facilities Master Plan (FMP) to renovate or rebuild all 27 of its libraries, launched groundbreaking initiatives addressing community needs around technology, education and economic development, and is consistently ranked as a “Five Star” library, a prestigious distinction from the Library Journal. He served as president of the Nevada Library Association before moving to Cleveland and he was previously the President of the Public Library Association (PLA). The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.DaytonMetroLibrary.org/CatalogingCulture/Special thank you to Catherine Young and Cleveland Public Library for capturing this audio.

5. 

   14 Jul 2026

   Season 2 Episode 1 - Lajmar Anderson

   Lajmar Anderson is currently a Reference and Instruction Librarian at Sinclair Community where he serves as the liaison for division of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. In this role he works to educate students in the nuances of information literacy and research. Lajmar has worked professionally in academic libraries for 20 years and as an academic librarian for the past 16 years. Lajmar is a graduate of Indiana University where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Master of Library Science, and where he is currently completing a Master of Arts in Political Science. The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.DaytonMetroLibrary.org/CatalogingCulture/ (https://www.DaytonMetroLibrary.org/CatalogingCulture/)

6. 

   10 Mar 2026

   EP 10 - Westly Davis

   Westly Davis is a strategic finance leader serving as Fiscal Officer for Dayton Metro Library. With 13 years of experience spanning investment banking and government accounting, bringing a unique blend of market insight and public sector stewardship. He oversees the operating budget, long-term financial planning, and capital strategy that support innovation and sustainability across the Dayton Metro Library system. Westly is a proud graduate of Central State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business and Accounting.The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.DaytonMetroLibrary.org/CatalogingCulture/

7. 

   10 Feb 2026

   EP 9 - Thomas Dickens

   Thomas Dickens is the Assistant Dean for Organizational Development and Culture for University Libraries at The Ohio State University. Dickens leads transformative efforts to foster a welcoming, supportive workplace and a vibrant organizational culture where employees thrive. Reporting to the Vice Provost and Dean of University Libraries, Dickens collaborates with internal and university-wide stakeholders to recruit, retain, and develop a talented workforce advancing research, teaching, and learning. Thomas has been a Higher Education practitioner for over 10 years. Prior to joining The Ohio State University, Thomas worked at the University of Michigan as the Diversity and Inclusion Specialist for the University Library. The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

8. 

   13 Jan 2026

   EP 8 - Marcus Walker

   Marcus Walker is the Law School Archivist at the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law Library. He has been employed in libraries on-and-off – mostly on – since beginning as an undergraduate student assistant at Fondren Library at Southern Methodist University, however his love of libraries and librarians began in early childhood. Marcus earned his Master of Science in Library Science from the University of Kentucky and currently serves on the Advisory Commission for the Louisville Free Public Library. The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

9. 

   9 Dec 2025

   EP 7 - Robert Owens

   Robert Owens is an innovative, creative, and highly insightful professional. Currently, he serves as the Community Impact and Innovation Manager here at the Dayton Metro Library. Before this role, he served as the Assistant Branch Manager at DML's Southeast Branch. Robert obtained his B.S. degree in special education from Central State University. He has taught for 15 years and worked with at-risk youth in education, corrections, treatment, and chemical dependency for 20 years. He also holds an M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction from Wright State University and has over 25 years of experience as a trained facilitator. Robert brings more than two decades of experience in the areas of innovation, transformational leadership, achievement, and professional development. The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

10. 

    11 Nov 2025

    EP 6 - Chris Wallace

    Chris Wallace is a multifaceted individual whose life journey is marked by a profound commitment to education, mentorship, and community service. Born and raised in Springfield, Ohio, Chris's passion for making a difference in the lives of others has been evident throughout his career. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies at the University of Toledo and later attended Ohio University, where he earned a Master of Science in Athletic Administration. From his early days as a Certified Substitute Teacher at Springfield CitySchools to his current role as Mentor Supervisor, Chris has always sought toempower students and foster a positive learning environment. At SpringfieldCity Schools, he has played a pivotal role in managing programs likeYOUMedia and Makerspace, providing students with enriching after-school opportunities. In addition to his work in education, Chris has been deeply involved in community organizations. As President of the Springfield chapter of My Brother's Keeper, he has worked tirelessly to mentor young people and compile data to support the program's initiatives. Chris's leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals in his community. Chris is actively involved in various community boards, including the Clark County Leadership Board, the City of Springfield Zoning Board, and the Clark County Library Board where he currently serves as the secretary. Chris Wallace's story is one of dedication, passion, and service. The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented.https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

11. 

    14 Oct 2025

    EP 5 - Dr. Hank Benton

    Henry (Hank) L. Benton III was born and raised in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Benton earned his BA in Psychology from Ashland University, where he attended on a football scholarship. He earned his MS and PhD in Counseling Psychology from Tennessee State University. Dr. Benton currently is a on the sport psychology staff at the University of Notre Dame, serving the student athletes to help enhance their mental health and mental performance. His continuous goal as an author, is to promote Black joy through literature.The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented.https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

12. 

    9 Sept 2025

    EP 4 - Sammie Johnson

    Sammie Johnson is a dedicated library leader, educator, and advocate for equity in higher education. He currently serves as Director of Library Services at Wilberforce University, where he is committed to creating inclusive, innovative spaces that support student success. With a background in Social Work and a Master of Library Science from Texas Woman’s University, Sammie brings a unique blend of leadership, community engagement, and strategic vision to his work. Passionate about mentoring and uplifting underrepresented voices, Sammie is especially focused on the experiences of Black professionals navigating librarianship in predominantly White institutions. The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented. https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

13. 

    12 Aug 2025

    EP3 - Dr. W. Tali Hairston

    W. Tali Hairston, Ph.D. was appointed to the Library Board by Mayor Jenny Durkan in March 2020 and reappointed by Mayor Harrell in May 2023. He directs the Nehemiah Initiative and is the principal researcher and owner of Equitable Development LLC, an education research and community development firm. Dr. Hairston is a published researcher and co-principal investigator for university physics and equity research work under multiple National Science Foundation awards. He is also a recognized scholar on faith, race, liberation, and international community development. Nationally and internationally, Dr. Hairston serves executive leaders, municipalities, non-profits, denominations, schools, universities, and for-profits, including projects in Colombia, Cambodia, South Africa, Jamaica, and Vietnam. He was awarded the Jurisprudence Champion Award – Section on Public Law and Administration (2016) for contributions to the practice of public law and administration and awarded the Franklin High School Public Service Academy “Spirit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Service Award” (January 2017). The “Cataloging the Culture” podcast is a groundbreaking platform that amplifies the voices and stories of Black men working in libraries across the nation—through a monthly series. Hosted by Dr. Karlos L. Marshall of the Dayton Metro Library, each monthly episode delves into their unique journeys, from discovering the profession to navigating challenges, and celebrating successes in a field where they remain underrepresented.https://www.daytonmetrolibrary.org/catalogingculture/

14. 

    8 Jul 2025

    EP 2 - Dr. Anthony Wilson

    Dr. Anthony Wilson discusses his career journey from law enforcement to library leadership and his commitment to community service in an interview with Dr. Karlos L. Marshall.

15. 

    21 May 2025

    EP 1 - Bradley Kuykendall

    Dr. Marshall interviews Bradley Kuykendall, Dayton Metro Library's Floating Branch Manager, about his work in library innovation, equity, and mentorship, highlighting his dedication to community-focused service.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 5 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

10

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0