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A chapter in the Regina Public Library’s history is coming to a close, as the search for a new library CEO gets underway.
RPL Director and CEO Jeff Barber is gearing up to retire in the fall after more than two decades with the organization.
“It’s been a privilege to serve our community and work alongside such dedicated staff and community partners,” Barber said in a news release from the organization.
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“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together and the role the library continues to play in connecting people, supporting learning, and strengthening our community.”
In its release, the public library said Barber was brought onto the team in 2003 during a period of “significant financial challenge.” He was appointed to the role of library director and CEO two years later and helped stabilize the public library, reportedly without cutting services or closing branches.
“Jeff’s leadership has had a lasting impact on Regina Public Library and the broader Saskatchewan library system,” said RPL board chair Marj Gavigan.
“His commitment to collaboration and equitable access has strengthened libraries across the province, while his dedication to Regina Public Library has shaped it into the organization it is today. His impact leaves RPL stronger, more connected to the community, and a respected, valued institution.”
The library said Barber played a key role in developing Saskatchewan’s integrated library system – the first and only of its kind – providing equitable access to library materials across the province.
“He continues to be an active member in the Saskatchewan Information and Library Services (SILS) consortium, working with directors across the province to coordinate and deliver excellent library services and resources,” the RPL said in its statement.
During his time in the role, Barber also helped drive the development and construction of mâmawêyatitân centre, in Regina’s North Central, which included RPL’s Albert Branch, Scott Collegiate, City of Regina programming and community services. He also served as the chair of the centre’s owners group, which includes RPL, the City, and the Regina Board of Education.
Regina mayor, Chad Bachynski, thanked Barber for his leadership and contributions to RPL in a statement.
“Since stepping into the CEO role in 2005, he has strengthened the library’s deep connections with community organizations across Regina and ensured that residents have access to modern, relevant, and educational library services. His many years of dedication have shaped RPL into a place where learning and inclusion thrive,” Bachynski said.
The RPL board has contracted a search firm to identify candidates to replace Barber and expects to name a new Library CEO by the end of the year.
In the meantime, Barber will stay in the top job at RPL until fall to help support the library’s transition to a new leader.
