UALR Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Dr. Zulma Toro-Ramos recently announced that Wanda Dole, dean of the UALR Ottenheimer Library, will retire July 1.

A search is underway for an interim library dean.

Dole has had an extensive record of research, publication, and service at the local, regional, national, and international level. A member of the American Library Association’s Council, she also served on the Professional Committee and Governing Board of the International Federation of Library Associations.

Dole led the renovation of public areas of the library to create spaces conducive to learning and research. The library gained new technology for use by UALR students, employees, and the community, and print and online resources were expanded.

“Under her leadership, strategic planning and assessment were nurtured, and the library’s resources and facilities were enhanced and improved. The library has created a culture of assessment and is committed to the continuous improvement cycle,” Toro said.

In addition, Dole also established the Ottenheimer Library Development Board to plan and support fundraising initiatives.

Prior to coming to UALR, she held administrative positions in the libraries of Washburn University, SUNY Stony Brook, Penn State – Abington and the University of Miami. She also worked in publishing and bookselling.

A graduate of the UCLA Senior Fellows program, Dole served as a Fulbright Senior Specialist at the American University in Bulgaria.