Dear colleagues,

As announced to campus on March 16, Bryn Geffert is stepping down as Dean of the University Libraries to return to his interest in teaching and research. With the greatest respect for the many important initiatives Bryn has brought to UVM, and his work to modernize the libraries, I hope you will join me in thanking him for his leadership. Bryn’s service as Dean of the Libraries will end on June 30, 2026. I am writing to initiate the process of identifying interim leadership for the Libraries.

The interim dean appointment (12-month position at 1.0 FTE) begins July 1, 2026 and is expected to be a one-year appointment. Once announced, the interim dean will begin working with Library leadership to affect a smooth transition.

Self-nominations and nominations of colleagues are invited at this time. All application materials must be submitted to Kerry Castano, the Provost’s Chief of Staff, by April 15, 2026. Self-nominations should include a statement of interest that also highlights qualifications, and an updated CV. Nominations of others should include a brief statement of their qualifications to serve as interim dean. Those nominated by others will be alerted of their nomination and asked to provide a statement of interest and CV if they wish to be considered. Nominations must be received in time to allow for a candidate’s complete submission by the April 15, 2026 application deadline.

The committee to advise me on the candidates’ qualifications and suitability to serve as interim dean will include elected members from the Libraries, and Provost appointees. Conversations about the scope and timing of identifying permanent leadership for the Libraries will begin in the fall. The interim dean is not precluded from candidacy for the permanent leadership position.

The following list of desired qualifications has been established for the interim dean: 

  • Faculty member at the University of Vermont 
  • Library leadership experience at the level of director or higher 
  • Demonstrated knowledge of faculty/staff recruitment and rank progression policies and procedures 
  • Broad understanding of UVM Libraries and the Libraries’ place in our University and the national context 
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, communicate, and make decisions 
  • Ability to generate broad support and engagement among faculty and staff 
  • Financial acumen, experience with budgets 
  • Excitement for the leadership role, enthusiasm for the goals and priorities of the University and its leadership, and commitment to the University of Vermont

Thank you for considering this important leadership opportunity and for encouraging your colleagues to do the same.

Linda Schadler
Interim Provost and Senior Vice President