LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The University of Louisville has hired a professional with a reputation for innovation in technology and customer service to head its University Libraries.
UofL’s Board of Trustees Executive Committee today approved the appointment of Robert Fox Jr., associate dean of libraries at Georgia Institute of Technology since 2005, as professor and dean of University Libraries. He will assume his UofL responsibilities Feb. 14.
UofL’s library system is a member of the prestigious Association of Research Libraries and is ranked among the top 100 libraries in North America. The library boasts more than 2.2 million volumes and 46,000 active serial subscriptions. The University Libraries include five libraries on the Belknap Campus and one at the Health Sciences Center.
“On each of my trips to Louisville considering this position, I have been impressed with the energy and activities of UofL, its libraries and the city,” Fox said. “I really look forward to leading the libraries in providing resources and services to the entire community.”
Fox has been credited with innovations, such as numerous renovation and construction projects including two new commons spaces, a new library classroom and planning for a new desk that will consolidate services. He also has improved user engagement through creation of a user experience department and advisory boards for students and faculty.
“Bob Fox was the first choice of every committee and every individual he met when he visited campus,” said UofL Provost Shirley Willihnganz. “He will bring energy, vision and expertise in areas that will be vital to the future of libraries, such as open access journals and improving the user experience. Under his leadership, we will continue to grow as one of the nation’s top research libraries.”
Prior to his tenure at Georgia Tech, Fox served in several positions at Clayton State University in Morrow, Ga. He was that institution’s director of library services from 1992 to 2005. He also has served as a reference librarian at Woodruff Library at Atlanta University Center, a consortium of historically black colleges and universities.
Fox earned his master of business administration degree at the University of Georgia. He holds a master of library sciences degree from Clark Atlanta University.