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.
Board of Directors
| Larry Alford Chief Librarian, University of Toronto Libraries Chair (2026) Second term ends 2028 | Dale Askey Vice-Provost (Library and Museums) and Chief Librarian, University of Alberta Edmonton Second term ends 2028 |
| Charlie Barlow Executive Director, Boston Library Consortium First term ends 2029 | Janet Bishop A.J. McFadden Dean of the Library, Claremont Colleges Library Second term ends 2029 |
| Guylaine Beaudry Trenholme Dean of Libraries, McGill University First term ends 2027 | Lisa Carter University Librarian and Dean of Libraries, University of Michigan First term ends 2029 |
| John Culshaw University Librarian, University of Iowa Second term ends 2028 | Angi Faiks Library Director, Macalester College Vice Chair (2026) Second term ends 2028 |
| Donald Gilstrap Dean of Libraries, University of Alabama Second term ends 2027 | Todd Grappone University Librarian, University of California, Santa Barbara First term ends 2029 |
| Devin Savage Dean of Libraries, Illinois Institute of Technology Secretary (2026) Second term ends 2029 | Matthew Sheehy University Librarian, Brandeis University Treasurer (2026) Second term ends 2028 |
| Melissa Levine Independent First term ends 2029 | Boaz Nadav-Manes University Librarian, Lehigh University First term ends 2029 |
| Martha Whitehead Vice President for the Harvard Library and University Librarian, Harvard University First term ends 2028 | Jacob Nadal President, Center for Research Libraries Member, Executive Committee Ex officio member of all committees |