Vice-provost (Library and Museums) and chief librarian moving to UBC

Dr. Dale Askey is taking on a new role as university librarian at UBC effective September 1, 2026. Dale will be leaving the University of Alberta and his role as vice-provost (Library and Museums) and chief librarian; his last day will be July 15, 2026.

Since Dale started at the U of A and in this role in 2018, he has been a tireless supporter of all aspects of his portfolio; the Library, Museums, University of Alberta Press, and of our university as a whole. Under Dale's leadership, and with valued partners, Library and Museums expanded in the areas of fundraising, infrastructure, leadership and reputation-building resulting in the largest gift ever to the Library. The result of this donation is the Geoffrey & Robyn Sperber Health Sciences Library which opened in Fall 2023. Dale worked alongside President Flanagan to initiate The Kenneth and Sandra Wong Gallery. When it opens in 2027, the gallery will bring the university’s 30 collections together, allowing the public to explore the cultural and scientific heritage of Alberta and the world. 

Information regarding the Interim University Librarian and search process will be provided in an upcoming announcement.

This is a very exciting opportunity for Dale. Please join me in wishing him the best with this endeavour. I look forward to welcoming a new leader to support the excellent work happening in Library and Museums.