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Governance

The Center for Research Libraries (CRL) stands as a beacon of collaboration, innovation, and stewardship in the global research community. At the heart of its success is strong governance—a dedicated leadership committed to preserving, expanding, and ensuring equitable access to the world's most valuable scholarly resources.

CRL’s governance reflects the collective vision of its member institutions, bringing together expertise, foresight, and a shared responsibility to support research that shapes the future. Through transparent decision-making, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to sustainability, CRL continues to strengthen its role as a vital force in global knowledge preservation.

Guided by a mission to empower scholars and institutions, CRL champions equitable resource sharing, the preservation of rare and endangered materials, and innovation in digital access. Its governance structure—rooted in collaboration and accountability—ensures that CRL remains a dynamic, forward-thinking organization that adapts to the evolving needs of research communities worldwide.

As stewards of this mission, CRL’s leadership, board, and committees work tirelessly to build trust, drive progress, and inspire engagement. Every decision reflects a deep commitment to fostering a research environment where knowledge is not just stored, but activated, shared, and leveraged for the greater good.

Together, we shape the future of research. Together, we sustain the legacy of CRL.

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Board of Directors

Larry Alford
Chief Librarian, University of Toronto Libraries
Vice Chair (2023-2025)
First term ends 2025
Dale Askey
Vice-Provost (Library and Museums)
Chief Librarian
University of Alberta Edmonton
First term ends 2025
Peter Bae
Director, Bowdoin College Library
First term ends 2027
Frederick Barnhart
Dean, Northern Illinois University Libraries 
First term ends 2025
Guylaine Beaudry
Trenholme Dean of Libraries, McGill University
First term ends 2027
Janet Bishop
A.J. McFadden Dean of the Library, Claremont Colleges Library
First term ends 2026
Diane Bruxvoort
Dean of Libraries, University of North Texas
Second term ends 2026
John Culshaw
University Librarian, University of Iowa 
First term ends 2025
Angi Faiks
Library Director, Macalester College
Secretary (2024-2025)
First term ends 2025
Donald Gilstrap
Dean of Libraries,
University of Alabama
Second term ends 2027
Paula Krebs
Executive Director, Modern Language Association
First term ends 2026
Devin Savage
Dean of Libraries, Illinois Institute of Technology
First term ends 2026
Roger Schonfeld
VP of Organizational Strategy, Ithaka
Treasurer (2022-2025)
Second term ends 2026
Matthew Sheehy
University Librarian
Brandeis University
First term ends 2025

Denise Stephens
Peggy V. Helmerich Dean of University Libraries
University of Oklahoma
Chair (2023-2025)
Second term ends 2025

Jacob Nadal
President, Center for Research Libraries
Member, Executive Committee
Ex officio member of all committees