News Release

99-03

National Librarian Marianne Scott Retires After
15 Years

Ottawa, July 30, 1999 -- Dr. Marianne Scott, National Librarian of Canada, has announced her retirement, to take effect September 30, 1999.

Having held the position since 1984, Dr. Scott was praised by Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps who cited Dr. Scott’s tireless work "at the forefront of this national institution" as well as her "international reputation for the work she has done to promote the role that libraries play in our society."

During Dr. Scott’s 15 years at the helm, the National Library has strengthened its Canadiana collections and ensured their preservation for future generations; established partnerships and formed networks to deliver programs and services; and widened the Library’s outreach, including the establishment of the Friends of the National Library of Canada.

The National Library has taken a leading role in applying new technologies to document, preserve and promote the Canadian experience, in collaboration with libraries, other institutions and the private sector. The Library has implemented a new national bibliographic database, AMICUS, which includes a Web-based interface. The national bibliography, Canadiana, is now available on CD-ROM. Under Dr. Scott’s direction, the National Library has also gained international respect for its work in developing standards.

Asked what she feels are her greatest accomplishments, Dr. Scott did not single out one particular thing, but did mention the strengthened relationships between the National Library of Canada and the library community; the Library’s progress in technological development and ability to deal with the changes that are occurring in the new networked environment; and initiatives dealing with preservation such as the establishment of the Preservation Collection and the Permanent Paper Program. These accomplishments are the more significant given the resource constraints within the government during this period.

Roch Carrier has been appointed to replace Dr. Scott as National Librarian of Canada. A prolific contemporary Québecois author, Mr. Carrier has been active in various cultural organizations and was Director of the Canada Council from 1994 to 1997. An internationally renowned author and Officer of the Order of Canada, he has received many prizes and honors. Mr. Carrier assumes his new position in the fall of 1999.

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For more information, please contact

Line Ménard
Media Relations Coordinator