Dean of University Libraries Connie Kearns McCarthy announced earlier this week that she will retire in June 2010.
“Connie McCarthy has served William & Mary splendidly over the past dozen years as dean of our university library system,” College of William and Mary President Taylor Reveley said in a press release. “Under her leadership, our Earl Gregg Swem Library has advanced on all fronts, including a massive transformation of its physical being. As a resource for research, teaching, study and community, Swem Library is truly a gem. So is Connie. She will be missed enormously.”
McCarthy came to the College 12 years ago and has helped Swem achieve great successes. Earlier this year, Swem was ranked seventh in the Princeton Review’s “Best College Library” category.
The College’s library also had a record-breaking fundraising year, raising more than $5 million. Five years ago, Swem underwent major renovation and expansion, through which more than 100,000 feet were added to the building.
Outside of Swem, McCarthy has served as the director of the summer study abroad program in Galway, Ireland. She has also been involved in the Women’s Network and the Christopher Wren Organization.
McCarthy received an undergraduate degree from Dominican University and a master’s degree from the Catholic University of America in library science.
Her first job was as a cataloger in the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington D.C. She later worked in the George Washington University Library for over 15 years, leaving the University as the acting university librarian.
McCarthy subsequently spent 10 years at Duke University, where she eventually became the associate university librarian.
College Provost Michael Halleran will appoint a committee including faculty, staff and students to find McCarthy’s replacement.
“We all owe Connie McCarthy a great debt,” Halleran said. “From a successful building expansion, to growth in technology, to providing our students, faculty and staff with a library that plays a vital role in the educational experience, she has contributed mightily to William & Mary during her tenure.”
