The Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL) board has named Scott Hargrove as the library’s new chief executive officer.
Hargrove assumed leadership on Jan. 19 from retiring CEO Rob O’Brennan.
District of Kent Mayor John Van Laerhoven, chair of the FVRL board, said Hargrove was unanimously selected based on his track record of leadership and innovation.
“Scott has substantial experience in working effectively with the board as well as the provincial and national library communities. His experience in strategic planning, team building, and collaboration is well suited to guiding the largest public library system in British Columbia into the future.”
Hargrove’s library career spans 23 years, beginning in 1988 as a page at Greater Victoria Public Library.
He held various positions in Burlington Public Library prior to joining FVRL in 2006.
Over his time at FVRL, he has provided leadership in information technology, library collections, and corporate services.
Under his leadership, the FVRL has embraced significant technological advances as well as important management restructuring, Laerhoven said.
Hargrove holds an executive master of library and information science degree from San Jose State University and a master of science in information processing (computer science) degree from the University of York (United Kingdom).
The FVRL system covers libraries in 25 communities, including Abbotsford and Mission.