International Center University of Florida

Source: Communication.uflib.ufl.edu

Effective July 21, Patrick Reakes will serve as interim dean of the George A. Smathers Libraries following the retirement of Judy Russell, who served as the first Dean of University Libraries for 18 years.

“Judy left a really strong tradition of having high-quality Libraries for UF, and I want to make sure we keep moving forward with that legacy. The flagship university should have flagship libraries,” said Reakes.

Reakes has been senior associate dean of scholarly resources and services since 2018 and has held several key leadership roles, including chair of the humanities and social sciences library. He will serve as interim dean through June 30, 2026.

Reakes also contributes to global engagement as a member of the UF International Center’s International Council.  Congratulations, Patrick!