Canadian research libraries mark a pivotal year with the release of CARL’s latest annual overview

The Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL) released its 2025 Annual Report on June 3, 2026, offering a detailed look at the association’s work supporting Canada’s research library community. The report underscores collective progress in open scholarship, professional development, and advocacy within the country’s higher-education landscape.

CARL represents thirty-one research libraries, primarily at universities across Canada, along with national institutions such as Library and Archives Canada and the National Research Council Canada’s National Science Library. In 2025 the association welcomed the Library of Parliament as a new member, expanding its reach into parliamentary research support.

Leadership transitions shape the association’s direction

Dr. Mary-Jo Romaniuk of the University of Manitoba began her term as CARL President in 2025, serving through 2027. She succeeded Brett Waytuck and has emphasized collaboration and strategic renewal. The report also honours the retirement of longtime Executive Director Susan Haigh, who led CARL from 2014 to 2025. Haigh’s contributions included advancing national initiatives such as Portage for research data management and Scholaris for shared repository services, both now integrated into broader Canadian research infrastructure.

A search committee and the CARL Board worked throughout 2025 to recruit her successor, ensuring continuity. The transition coincided with the launch of CARL’s 2025–2028 Strategic Focus, which guides priorities in leadership, inclusion, impact, and advancing scholarship.

Strategic Focus 2025–2028 sets renewed priorities for Canadian research libraries

The new strategic plan emphasizes four core principles: leadership in open science and knowledge mobilization, inclusion through diverse collections and workforce development, impact via evidence-based advocacy, and capacity building through professional development. CARL’s five strategic committees—Advancing Research, Advancing Teaching and Learning, Strengthening Capacity, Impact, and Policy and Advocacy—translate these principles into action.

Key activities in 2025 included submitting feedback on the draft Tri-Agency Open Access Policy for Publications and convening experts to develop compliance scenarios ahead of the policy’s implementation. These efforts position Canadian university libraries as central partners in the national research ecosystem.

Open scholarship and policy advocacy gain momentum

CARL’s Policy and Advocacy Committee and Visiting Program Officers produced multiple federal policy briefs in 2025. Discussions focused on persistent identifiers, open science infrastructure, and sustainable funding models. The association strengthened ties with international partners including the International Alliance of Research Library Associations and the Association of Research Libraries in the United States.

These initiatives directly support Canadian universities by enhancing research visibility, interoperability, and compliance with emerging federal requirements. University libraries play a critical role in helping faculty and graduate students navigate open-access mandates while preserving access to scholarly resources.

Leadership development programs expand capacity across institutions

The inaugural cohort of the FLOURISH Leadership Program concluded in St. John’s in 2026, building on earlier programs such as the Academic Libraries Leadership Institute. Nine active Communities of Practice hosted regular web-based events, fostering peer learning on topics ranging from bibliometrics to accessibility.

The 2026 Librarians’ Research Institute and Evidence Synthesis Institutes further supported professional growth. These programs help librarians at Canadian universities develop skills in research support, teaching, and assessment—areas increasingly vital as institutions respond to evolving student needs and research demands.

Member engagement and national meetings strengthen the network

CARL held its Spring Member Meeting in Winnipeg in 2025 and its Fall meeting in Montebello. The Winnipeg gathering featured staff from member institutions and highlighted collaborative projects. Awards recognized outstanding contributions, including the Distinguished Service to Research Librarianship Award and the Award of Merit.

A CARL delegation visited Europe to exchange best practices, while domestic events reinforced connections among the thirty-one member libraries. The addition of the Library of Parliament broadens perspectives on research support beyond traditional academic settings.

Impact on Canadian higher education and research ecosystem

Research libraries at Canadian universities serve as essential infrastructure for teaching, learning, and discovery. CARL’s work in 2025 advanced open scholarship, supported evidence synthesis, and promoted inclusive practices that benefit students, faculty, and researchers nationwide.

By fostering collaboration on shared challenges such as collection diversity, digital preservation, and workforce development, the association helps universities maintain competitive research environments. These efforts align with federal priorities in science, innovation, and equity.

Financial summary and organizational health

The report includes a financial overview showing stable operations supported by member dues and partnerships. CARL maintained a healthy balance sheet while investing in programs and advocacy. The organization’s engaged board, dedicated staff, and active committees position it well for continued influence.

Photo by LEDC on Unsplash

Future outlook for Canada’s research libraries

With the 2025–2028 Strategic Focus in place, CARL will continue advancing open science, leadership development, and policy influence. Upcoming events include additional Communities of Practice sessions and the next Librarians’ Research Institute. The association remains focused on strengthening Canada’s research ecosystem amid evolving technological and policy landscapes.

University administrators, faculty, and PhD-track job seekers can follow CARL’s work through its website and e-Lert bulletin for insights into library trends affecting higher education.