Larry Alford (the Ontario Library Association)
Larry Alford honoured by Ontario College and University Library Association
Published: April 13, 2026
Larry Alford, university chief librarian at U of T Libraries, has received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ontario Library Association’s Ontario College and University Library Association (OCULA).
The award recognizes outstanding contributions to academic and research libraries in Ontario.
Alford, who has served as U of T's university chief librarian since 2011, is recognized for his leadership in expanding the Borealis Dataverse into a national shared service supporting digital research across Canada, as well as his support of open access partnerships that have reduced barriers to scholarship.
His commitment to supporting faculty, researchers and students has helped transform library spaces, services and digital infrastructure, positioning U of T Libraries to meet a rapidly changing research and technological landscape. He is also widely known for his generous mentorship of staff and future librarians.
“Larry is passionate about inspiring students, supporting faculty, mentoring staff, and collaborating with colleagues,” said Guylaine Beaudry, Trenholme Dean of Libraries at McGill University, who supported the nomination. “He has been a key partner in transforming libraries into technology-driven organizations and an integral driver in advancing knowledge infrastructure in Canada.”
“My role has always been user-driven — listening, learning, and determining the best path forward,” Alford said. “The joy of this work is helping students, many of whom are at the start of their life’s journeys, and enabling research that makes a difference. I’m honoured to be recognized by the OLA and grateful for the partnerships that have supported access to knowledge during this critical moment for research institutions.”
