Greater Victoria Public Library appoints new CEO, chief librarian

Stephanie Hall steps into the role Sept. 21, succeeding retiring Maureen Sawa

Greater Victoria Public Library appoints new CEO, chief librarian Published 2:30 pm Friday, July 17, 2026 The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) will have a new leader at the helm. The library board has appointed Stephanie Hall as the organization’s new chief executive officer and chief librarian.

Hall will officially assume the role on Sept. 21. She brings more than 20 years of library leadership to the position. Hall currently serves as the director of library services at West Vancouver Memorial Library.

Previously, she held the position of CEO for the Okanagan Regional Library system. In that role, she oversaw 29 branches serving more than 370,000 residents. Hall will oversee a similarly sized population in her new role, with the GVPL serving more than 380,000 residents across 12 branch locations.

Her career spans both municipal and regional systems, where she “championed innovation, community engagement, and partnerships that have earned significant recognition for organizational excellence.” “The GVPL is one of the busiest urban libraries in Canada, which reflects an embedded culture of learning in the region,” Hall said in a press release. “I’m excited to work with an amazing team and board to support our community as we contend with a changing world.”

Duncan Cavens, chair of the GVPL Board of Trustees, echoed that excitement. “I’m excited to welcome Stephanie as GVPL’s new CEO,” Cavens said. “She brings extensive experience leading public library systems and understands the important role libraries play in the communities they serve.

After a thorough process, the board is confident she is the right person to lead GVPL, and we look forward to welcoming her.” Hall succeeds Maureen Sawa, who is retiring after serving as CEO since 2010. Sawa will remain in her role through to mid-September 2026 to support the transition in leadership.

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