At the University Library, we recognize the critical value and importance of research in the practice of professional skills and actively support librarians in their research and scholarly activities.

As part of our efforts to build a research culture, in which we develop the individual and collective research capabilities of librarians, the Dean hosts an annual research lecture.  The lecture, which is delivered by an invited guest, is intended to showcase current research (or emerging areas of professional interest) and to address issues around the challenges and opportunities for library and information science research. 

The Dean’s Research Lecture is also a professional and networking event.  Attendance is open to all members of the University community and colleagues from the broader library and information sector, including colleagues working in other libraries and cultural institutions.

Past Lectures:

2011: Dr. Ingrid Parent, President of the International Federation of Library Associations and University Librarian at the University of British Columbia.

2010: Dr. James G. Neal, Vice-President for Information Services, and University Librarian at Columbia University, New York.

2009:  Dr. David Wiley, Associate Professor, Brigham Young University.

2008:  Mr. Ian E Wilson, Librarian and Archivist of Canada.

2007:  Dr. Jean-Claude Guedon, from the Université de Montréal held in conjunction with Congress 2007.

2006:  Mr. Ernie Ingles, Vice-Provost and Chief Librarian at the University of Alberta and recipient of the 2006 Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL) Award for Distinguished Service to Research Librarianship.

The inaugural Dean's Research Lecture was held in 2006 to recognize librarians as researchers and to help raise the profile of research in library and information science.