Outgoing UA Library Dean Honored at Annual Benefactors’ Luncheon

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Outgoing University of Alabama Libraries Dean Charles Osburn was recently honored for his 16 years of service during the annual Library Benefactors’ Luncheon held at the Amelia Gayle Gorgas Library on campus.

Osburn, who has served as dean of University Libraries since 1986, will be stepping down in August from his current post, but will resume his career as professor and scholarly writer at UA. He was recognized with a special gift from Donna Sorensen, wife of UA President Andrew Sorensen and chair of the Library Leadership Board. Additionally, Donna Sorensen announced that a collection of government documents housed within Gorgas Library would officially be named the Charles B. Osburn Government Documents Collection.

“Change has been at the forefront of Charles’ service as he has overseen three splendid new libraries built on campus, the implementation of the electronic library, the addition of the two millionth volume, and the comings and goings of many faculty and staff,” said Sorensen. “His leadership in maintaining excellent service for the users of University Libraries and his steady hand during vast changes earn him our respect and admiration. Throughout his years of leadership, Charles has served unfailingly with dignity, kindness, dedication and a grand sense of humor.”

“My words are few. I’m speechless,” Osburn responded. “I’m very surprised, humbled and honored. The work done here has not been carried out by me, but by the wonderful colleagues that I have been blessed with while at The University of Alabama.”

The reception, which was hosted by the Library Leadership Board, also honored two outstanding employees within the library system at UA. Honored with Leadership Board Awards this year were Trinh Bethard, senior library assistant in Acquisitions, who was presented the Staff Award; and Patricia Henderson, assistant professor and collection management coordinator, who was presented the Faculty Award. In 1999, the board decided to annually fund the two awards presented to faculty and staff.