Oludare Shorunke - Librarian

Oludare Shorunke

Librarian - James Hope University

Dr. Oludare Shorunke is a distinguished academic librarian and higher education leader, recognized for his expertise in academic library standards, strategic information literacy initiatives, and the continuous enhancement of library service quality. With over a decade of progressive experience across leading Nigerian universities, Dr. Shorunke has demonstrated a sustained commitment to advancing the role of libraries in teaching, learning, and research. Dr. Shorunke brings a wealth of experience in library management and digital transformation. Prior to joining James Hope University, he held key positions at the University of Lagos Medical Library, where he managed multiple library sections to align with institutional goals and accreditation requirements. Earlier in his career, at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Dr. Shorunke played a pivotal role in establishing the university’s library infrastructure, promoting user-centered services, and supporting the university’s mission to drive scientific and technological advancement.

Throughout his career, Dr. Shorunke has contributed to the development and implementation of strategic plans and operational policies that address both immediate and long-term objectives within academic library systems. He has successfully engaged with diverse stakeholders, including management, faculty, and students, to communicate library priorities, advocate for resource needs, and foster collaborative partnerships that benefit the entire academic community. His leadership encompasses oversight of core library operations such as facilities management, financial planning, information technology integration, information literacy programming, and personnel development. Dr. Shorunke has also coordinated the activities of branch libraries, ensuring consistent service delivery and alignment with institutional standards.

Dr. Shorunke’s academic credentials include a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Ibadan, a premier institution in Nigeria, and a PhD in Library and Information Science from the University of Ilorin. His scholarly work reflects a commitment to knowledge production in librarianship, with contributions to research, policy development, and the adoption of innovative practices such as digital curation, AI-driven discovery tools, and inclusive, user-centered service models.

A proactive member of the professional community, Dr. Shorunke is affiliated with several local and international organizations, including the Nigerian Library Association, the Academic and Research Libraries Section, and the Association for Health Information and Libraries in Africa. He is duly registered with the Librarian Registration Council of Nigeria. These affiliations underscore his dedication to professional standards, continuous learning, and advocacy for the advancement of library and information science in Africa and beyond.

Dr. Shorunke is committed to ongoing professional development, regularly participating in conferences, workshops, and training programs to remain at the forefront of emerging trends in library science—such as digital literacy, data privacy, and the integration of open-source technologies. His leadership exemplifies a blend of academic rigor and practical innovation, positioning him as a key contributor to the evolving landscape of academic librarianship in Nigeria.