New Associate Deputy Director Joins IMLS Office of Library Services
Anthony D. Smith Returns to Lead Agency’s Discretionary Programs
Washington, DC—The Institute of Museum and Library Services today named Anthony D. Smith to serve as the Associate Deputy Director for Discretionary Programs in the Office of Library Services at IMLS. His portfolio will include oversight of programs like Accelerating Promising Practices for Small Libraries, the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian program, National Leadership Grants for Libraries, and Native American Library Services grants.
Smith previously served at IMLS as the Senior Program Management Officer for Library/Museum Collaboration within the National Leadership Grant (NLG) Program from 2010 to 2013. Early learning became a new priority for IMLS shortly after his arrival, and it quickly became the focus of his work during his tenure as an NLG Program Officer.
“I’m excited to welcome Anthony back to IMLS,” said Cynthia Landrum, Deputy Director of the Office of Library Services. “Anthony brings an array of experience to the Associate Deputy Director role. His experience in federal grantmaking, and management along with his leadership in the academic and federal library sectors will be of great value in administering IMLS discretionary programs.”
Smith departed IMLS in 2013 to assume duties within the Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP), a federal effort that relies on a national network of more than 1,100 libraries to carry out its mission. As the Chief of Projects and Systems at the Government Publishing Office (GPO), he provided leadership for technology, project management, preservation and archiving in support of the FDLP.
“My experience at GPO has provided me with a heightened appreciation for civics engagement and has made me aware of how critically important it is for the public to have access to government information,” said Smith.
Prior to his work in the federal government, Anthony served as the Director of Digital Initiatives and Services at the University of Miami and the Coordinator for the Digital Library Center at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. At both institutions, he led a variety of initiatives to support the digital transformation of higher education. Beginning in 2009, Anthony has also served as an international instructor for UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission by providing instruction on digital asset management, digital preservation, and data curation and management practices.
Anthony served 10 years in the United States Navy as a computer specialist. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and a Master of Science in Library and Information Service from the University of Tennessee. Anthony also serves on the Board of Visitors for the University of Tennessee’s College of Information and Communications.
About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.