YARRA PLENTY: Library CEO to leave
Yarra Plenty Regional Library Chief Executive Officer Jane Cowell will step down from her role, effective October 3.
Ms Cowell’s tenure has been marked by innovation, sector-wide collaboration, and a deep commitment to access, inclusion, and literacy.
“Jane is the leader every library wishes they could have,” Nillumbik’s Shire Cr Grant Brooker said.
“She has transformed YPRL into one of the most progressive and community-focused library services in the country.”
Since joining YPRL in 2018, Ms Cowell has delivered on an ambitious transformation agenda.
She led major digital and service overhauls and expanded YPRL’s consortia model, creating Victoria’s largest public library digital collection through the BooBook partnership with Your Library and Whitehorse Manningham Libraries.
Throughout her career, Ms Cowell has been a powerful advocate for libraries nationally and internationally, serving as President of the Australian Library and Information Association nd contributing to global library conversations through her work with the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions. She will continue to serve as ALIA President and maintain her IFLA roles.
Ms Cowell said she was proud of YPRL, its staff and the deep connection the library has with the community it serves. The YPRL Board will soon begin the process of appointing a new CEO.