Paul Takala is currently the Chief Librarian/CEO of the Hamilton Public Library. His 25 years in libraries have been focused on using technology innovation and collaborative leadership to increase the impact of public libraries. He held several technology leadership positions at the Hamilton Public Library before becoming Chief Librarian/CEO in 2012. Paul graduated from the University of Toronto with his Master of Library Science in 1994. Prior to working at HPL Paul worked for The New York Public Library.  Some of the recognitions Paul has received are: Distinguished Fellow, Mohawk College (2019); Paul Harris Fellowship Award, Rotary Club of Hamilton (2015); W.J. Robertson Medallion, Ontario Library Association (2006) and Arbour Award, Alumni Association University of Toronto, Faculty of Information Studies (2003).  Paul has previously served as Chair of the following: Canada’s National Heritage Digital Strategy (NHDS), Canadian Urban Library Council (CULC) and the Canadian Federation of Library Associations (CFLA).

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