Title: Reimagining the Sacred Space: Libraries, Technology, and the Future of Theological Scholarship
In a time of rapid technological change, how can theological libraries not only adapt but thrive? Drawing on experiences in re-envisioning a major research library, this address will explore the dynamic intersection of technology, creativity, and evolving service models. Discover inspiring strategies and future-forward perspectives to empower theological librarians in their vital role of supporting scholarship, fostering community, and navigating the evolving landscape of theological education.
Bio: Keith Webster was appointed Dean of University Libraries at Carnegie Mellon University in July 2013 and was additionally appointed as Director of Emerging and Integrative Media Initiatives in July 2015 and was installed to the Helen and Henry Posner Jr. Dean’s Chair in 2021. He also has a courtesy academic appointment at the University’s H. John Heinz III College. Previously, Keith was Vice President and Director of Academic Relations and Strategy for the global publishing company John Wiley and Sons. He was formerly Dean of Libraries and University Librarian at the University of Queensland in Australia, leading one of the largest universities and hospital library services in the southern hemisphere. Earlier positions include University Librarian at Victoria University in New Zealand, Head of Information Policy at HM Treasury, London, and Director of Information Services at the School of Oriental & African Studies, University of London.
Keith has held professorships in information science at Victoria University of Wellington and City University, London. He is a Chartered Fellow and an Honorary Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (UK), and has served on government advisory boards, journal editorial boards, and as an officer in professional and learned societies around the world. He was Chair of the National Information Standards Organization in 2018/19, and now serves on the board of the Coalition for Networked Information.
Keith is a professional futurist, and regularly consults with not-for-profit and professional organization boards. His professional interests include AI and data-informed community engagement, research evaluation, and the future of scholarly communication. He is a regular speaker on topics such as the future of communication and the impact of open science on publishing and libraries.
