Dr Jessica Gardner has been appointed University Librarian, the second woman to take on the top role in the UL in a history spanning centuries.

She replaces Anne Jarvis, who resigned after seven years as University Librarian to take up the equivalent role at Princeton University in October this year.

Dr Gardner is currently the University Librarian and Director of Library Services at the University of Bristol. She has previously held roles in the libraries of Exeter and Leeds Universities. She will assume her new position in April 2017.

Dr Gardner said: “I am delighted to have been elected as Cambridge University’s Librarian and to have the opportunity to build on the success of a long line, over 600 years, of my predecessors, most recently the wonderful Anne Jarvis. It will be an honour to join Cambridge and to lead one of the world’s great research and copyright libraries, rich with world heritage treasures.

“The collections held by Cambridge span more than 4,000 years of recorded human thought. I’ll want to develop a shared vision with staff and students of the University to help build the Library’s global profile for its leading role in collection, shaping, preserving and inspiring world knowledge.”

Acting University Librarian Professor Chris Young praised the appointment, stating: “Dr Jessica Gardner’s experience, knowledge, vision and warmth make her an exceptionally qualified candidate to lead Cambridge University Library.

“It has been a privilege to steer this extraordinary institution through this time of transition, and I am delighted to know I will be handing over to someone as capable as Dr Gardner.

“Dr Jessica Gardner's experience, knowledge, vision and warmth make her an exceptionally qualified candidate to lead Cambridge University Library”

“In my role as Deputy Head of the School of Arts and Humanities, I look forward to working with her to create closer links between the treasures of Cambridge University Library and the outstanding research happening across the University.”

The post of University Librarian has a long history: it was created in 1577, replacing the analogous role of Chaplain-Librarian. The University Library itself first appears in written records in 1416, though the iconic building in which it is now housed is a product of the 1930s.