The University of Guelph has appointed Amanda Etches as the new university librarian.
Etches is a well-respected member of the McLaughlin Library whose vision and values-driven leadership is reflected in her successful term as interim university librarian.
Through more than 14 years of progressive leadership at U of G, Etches previously held senior roles, including associate university librarian (research) and acting university librarian.
Amanda Etches
Throughout her tenure, Etches has led the library through pivotal initiatives to strengthen its operations and strategic vision. She successfully guided the library through a major budget reduction with transparency and compassion, introduced a renewed values-based strategic planning initiative while advocating for the role of the library in supporting student success, teaching and research.
"Amanda is an extraordinary leader who exemplifies the values of our institution," says Dr. Bill Rosehart, provost and vice-president (academic) and chair of the search committee.
"Her deep commitment to equity, innovation, and collaboration - combined with her passion for user-centered library services - have had a transformative impact on the McLaughlin Library and beyond," he adds "We're delighted to see her step into this role permanently."
As a leader, Etches has co-chaired initiatives with partners across research, teaching and IT services. Her work has been instrumental in developing the University's Research Data Management Strategy and strengthening digital scholarship support. Within the library, she has championed inclusive leadership, thoughtful communication and meaningful staff engagement.
"I'm incredibly honoured to serve the University of Guelph community in this role," Etches says. "Our library is a place of connection, creativity and care, and I'm so proud of the work we do every day to support learning, research, and equity on campus. I look forward to continuing to build a library that inspires, includes and empowers."
Etches holds a Master of Information Studies (MISt) and a Master of Arts in English from the University of Toronto, and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of Western Ontario.
She is a nationally recognized expert in user experience and universal design in libraries, having published and presented widely on these topics. Her leadership has been recognized by peers across Canada and internationally, including through her selection as an Association of Research Libraries Leadership Fellow and being named a Mover and Shaker by Library Journal.
