I am pleased to announce the reappointment of Dr. Dale Askey as Vice-Provost (Library and Museums) and Chief Librarian for a second five-year appointment effective July 1, 2023.
Under Dr. Askey’s leadership, the U of A Library provided essential services throughout the pandemic while expanding in the areas of fundraising, infrastructure, leadership and reputation-building. During this time, Dr. Askey shifted the focus in fundraising from in-kind to cash donations, leading to the largest gift ever to the Library. The result of this donation is the new Geoffrey & Robyn Sperber Health Sciences Library, launching in Fall 2023. Replacing the Scott Library, the Sperber Library will serve the needs of the university’s health sciences community while providing an inclusive and accessible learning space.
As part of the broader portfolio, Dr. Askey will be working in tandem with the museums’ new director Christine Conciatori, focusing on the need for sustainable funding to support the preservation and growth of U of A’s world-class museum and library collections, including working with the president to build the University of Alberta Gallery.
Dr. Askey is a tireless supporter of all aspects of his portfolio; the Library, museums, University Press, and of our university as a whole. His vision for how knowledge is generated, used, and preserved will serve our university well into the future.
I’d also like to acknowledge Dr. Askey’s contribution to the university’s Ranking and Reputation Group. Dr. Askey has been a key and consistent contributor to this group, leading the bibliometrics and research impact work.
My thanks to the members of the review committee for their work and to all of those who took the time to participate in the review process. We wish Dr. Askey continued success in his next five years.
Kathryn Todd
Deputy Provost (Academic)