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The Che’Be’Tu Apache Sweethearts, of McNary, Arizona, and the White Mountain Apache Tribe, perform a hoop dance during the New Mexico Consortium of Academic Libraries retreat at ��˾������-Gallup on July 31, 2025.

��˾������allup showcases Indigenous culture at library directors retreat

Categories: Students   Faculty   Staff   Community  

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Zollinger Library Director Markos Chavez named president of New Mexico Consortium of Academic Libraries

By Cole Frame, Friday, Nov. 14, 2025

GALLUP, N.M. — ��˾������-Gallup’s library director achieved the incredible honor of becoming the president of the New Mexico Consortium of Academic Libraries over the summer.

��˾������allup’s Zollinger Library Director Markos Chavez now serves as president of the consortium’s Executive Committee alongside other officers from libraries around the state. The consortium presents the unified position of New Mexico’s academic libraries on key issues and implements projects of mutual benefit.

Chavez said the executive leadership track often involves a three-year commitment with those in office serving for three years consistently.

Staying in the loop

As the new president, Chavez conducts business meetings with his fellow library directors.

He is also tasked with presenting the Librarian of the Year Award to one lucky nominee. While the secretary handles the votes, Chavez will hold the honor of presenting the award to the nominee with the most votes.

In July, Chavez hosted the Directors Retreat at ��˾������allup, inviting his fellow library directors to visit the campus.

Showcasing Indigenous culture

The Directors Retreat lasted for two days.

The first day consisted of a simple get-together for professional development training and a chance for all of the library directors to update each other on how their jobs are going.

The Cha'Be'Tu Apache Sweethearts from McNary, Arizona, and the White Mountain Apache Tribe performed traditional songs and dances for the consortium members and the campus community on July 31.

“It turned out great for everyone,” Chavez said. “People on campus got to enjoy their dancing, and the directors at the retreat really enjoyed getting a first-hand look at what we have to offer here in Gallup.”

Transforming the library

As library director at ��˾������allup, Chavez is responsible for Zollinger Library’s overall funding, staffing, and operations, ensuring the library is open for students to utilize the various study areas. He also organizes and hosts events for students and community members regularly.

Chavez came on board as library director in August 2022 and was recognized as ��˾������allup’s Employee of the Month in May 2023 for his work in transforming the library into a hub of student, community and faculty services.

“Director Chavez has done an excellent job running the Zollinger Library in his time with ��˾������allup,” Dean of Instruction John Zimmerman said. “It comes as no surprise to me that his colleagues, state-wide, supported him in becoming the president of NMCAL. Markos continues to do great work and is a supportive and positive leader here in Gallup and across New Mexico. We are all very proud of his accomplishments.”

Chavez was born and raised in Gallup and has been working in the Gallup area for more than a decade. The only time he left was when he pursued a higher education.

“As soon as I was able to teach, I came back to Gallup and started working in 2004,” he said.

Chavez holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Arts in secondary education from UNM in Albuquerque. He also holds a Master of Library Information and Science from the University of Arizona.

Based on his personal experience, he encourages students to stick with school when making the transition from an undergraduate program to graduate studies.

“Stick with progress and decisions made,” he said. “Continuing with school from a bachelor’s straight to a master’s leads to success. Patience is key!”

Editor's Note: Cole Frame is a work-study student who works as a public relations assistant for ��˾������allup. Sr. Public Relations Specialist Richard Reyes contributed to this report.

The Che’Be’Tu Apache Sweethearts perform a rainbow dance during the New Mexico Consortium of Academic Libraries retreat at ��˾������-Gallup on July 31, 2025.