She earned her master's degree in library science from Simmons College and a doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh.

She worked first as the dean and acting provost of the library school of Texas Woman's University.

[2] Over the course of her career, she published several books on librarianship, such as Personnel Administration in the Small Public Library (1980), Leaders in Libraries: Styles and Strategies for Success (1991), and Interpersonal Skills, Theory and Practice: The Librarian's Guide to Becoming a Leader (2010).

[2] Awards earned by Sheldon include:[2][4] At the University of Texas, she was honored with the establishment of an endowed professorship in her name.

[4] Additionally, the New Mexico Library Foundation created a professional development grant named for Sheldon.