Stephanie Hall appointed CEO and Chief Librarian of Greater Victoria Public Library

July 16, 2026

The Greater Victoria Public Library Board today announced the appointment of Stephanie Hall as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Librarian of Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL). Hall succeeds Maureen Sawa, who is retiring after having served as GVPL’s CEO since 2010.

Greater Victoria Public Library Appoints New Chief Executive Officer and Chief Librarian

July 16, 2026, Victoria, B.C. — The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Stephanie Hall as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Librarian. Hall will join GVPL on September 21, 2026.

With more than 20 years of library leadership, Hall is a seasoned and collaborative leader with extensive expertise in public library services. She currently serves as the Director, Library Services at West Vancouver Memorial Library and previously held the position of CEO for the Okanagan Regional Library system, where she provided leadership to 29 branches serving more than 370,000 residents across a 59,600 square kilometre service area. Her experience spans both municipal and regional library systems.

Hall is recognized for her inclusive, strategic vision. Throughout her career, she has championed innovation, community engagement, and partnerships that have resulted in 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,” said Hall. “I’m excited to work with an amazing team and Board to support our community as we contend with a changing world.”

“I’m excited to welcome Stephanie as GVPL’s new CEO,” said Duncan Cavens, Chair of the GVPL Board of Trustees. “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.”

Stephanie Hall succeeds Maureen Sawa, who is retiring after having served as GVPL’s CEO since 2010. Sawa will remain in her role through to mid-September 2026 to support a smooth transition in leadership.

(Via Greater Victoria Public Library)