SFU associate dean of libraries assumes ACRL presidency

Karen Munro, SFU's associate dean of libraries, learning and research services, has been named president of the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL), a division of the American Library Association.

This marks the first time a representative from a Canadian institution has taken on leadership of the division. ACRL is the preeminent professional organization in the field of academic librarianship, serving more than 10,000 members across the U.S. and Canada.

“It’s a true honour for me,” Munro says. “ACRL has a long history of developing standards of excellence that support and guide the higher education community. I’ll be walking in the footsteps of highly respected past presidents and board members who have pushed the needle forward on topics such as intellectual freedom, information literacy standards, and access to information. I anticipate that my role as president will further inform my work as an associate dean with the SFU Library.”

Gwen Bird, SFU’s university librarian and dean of libraries, says, “This is a key leadership role with a group that does important work with and for academic librarians. I’m proud that SFU Library will be represented in this capacity, and I know Karen will bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the position.”

Munro has been an active member with ACRL for 16 years, serving as a member and chair on a variety of committees. In her role at SFU, Munro oversees learning and instructional services, access services, the Student Learning Commons, the Research Commons, and the Belzberg and Fraser Libraries.

About the Association of College & Research Libraries

The Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL) is the higher education association for librarians. Representing nearly 10,500 academic and research librarians and interested individuals, ACRL (a division of the American Library Association) develops programs, products and services to help academic and research librarians learn, innovate and lead within the academic community. Founded in 1940, ACRL is committed to advancing learning and transforming scholarship.