Canada: Asa Kachan Named New Chief Librarian and CEO of Halifax Public Libraries

From the Halifax Public Libraries:

The comprehensive, cross-Canada search has ended. Åsa Kachan, currently an Assistant Vice-President at Dalhousie University, has been named the new Chief Librarian and Chief Executive Officer for the Halifax Public Libraries.
With excitement and pride, Paul Bennett, the Chair of Halifax Regional Library Board, made the announcement at the Alderney Gate Public Library on Tuesday, September 23.
“Åsa Kachan is an innovative, strategic, and collaborative leader,” said Paul Bennett. “She has a passion for libraries and a demonstrated understanding of what it takes to serve diverse communities. Halifax Public Libraries is entering a pivotal time in its history and now our team of bright, progressive leaders is complete. This is an exciting time for Halifax Public Libraries.”

Background

Åsa Kachan (pronounced O-sa Katshun) brings senior management experience to the role as well as a commitment to public libraries. In her role as Assistant Vice-President, Enrolment Management & Registrar at Dalhousie University, Ms. Kachan has twice helped Dalhousie receive the Canadian Association of University Business Officers’ Productivity and Excellence Award; in 2011 for improving web communications and strategy, and in 2007 for improving service to students. In addition, she has a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Western Ontario, has worked in Saskatchewan public libraries, and, early in her career, she was President of the Saskatchewan Library Association and selected for the Northern Exposure to Leadership program.

Comment

“In taking on this position, I am drawn to the diversity and relevancy within Halifax Public Libraries,” said Åsa Kachan. “We have 14 branches serving many unique communities and a new Central Library that is creating local, national, and worldwide interest. I have an opportunity to play a part in transforming Halifax in new and interesting ways. That is exciting.”
Åsa Kachan begins as Chief Librarian and Chief Executive Officer on November 1st.

Read the Complete Announcement
Additional Coverage: Dal AVP and registrar to become new CEO of Halifax Public Libraries (via Dalhousie News)
See Also: New $57.6 Million/129,000 Sq Ft Halifax Public Library Opening This Fall (August 18, 2014)
See Also: Halifax’s New Central Library Earns Praise, Makes CNN’s Top-10 List of Eye-Popping New Buildings of 2014 (February 2, 2014)

Filed under: Awards, Libraries, Management and Leadership, News, Productivity, Public Libraries