This June, Clara M. Chu, Director of the Mortenson Center for International Library Programs and Mortenson Distinguished Professor at the University Library was recognized as a Notable Member of the ALA International Relations Round Table (IRRT) at the 2025 ALA Annual Conference in Philadelphia. Honorees have active IRRT membership and made substantial contributions to ALA’s core values on an international scale and are recognized for their important role in promoting understanding of and interests in library services around the globe.

Chu, a member of the IRRT since 2015 and of ALA for 37 years, was recognized for being a “leading voice in international and multicultural library and information education, research and practice.” In addition to her role at Illinois, she is active in several ALA committees and international library and information science (LIS) organizations. Chu has served on the editorial board of several journals, including the International Journal of Information, Diversity, & Inclusion, and was co-editor-in-chief of Library Trends and the co-founding editor of the “International Insights” column of College & Research Libraries News. She publishes, presents, and consults worldwide in English and Spanish on diversity, equity, and inclusion in LIS, strategic planning, research methods, and emerging technologies, among other topics.

“I’m deeply grateful for this honor, which recognizes professional work that I find fulfilling and meaningful. Moreover, as the director of the Mortenson Center, the purpose of the ALA IRRT aligns with our mission to strengthen international ties among libraries and librarians worldwide, promoting international education, understanding, and peace. Through ALA IRRT membership and service, I engage with a community of colleagues to collectively advance ALA’s core values and librarianship at the international level,” said Chu.

Congratulations to Chu for this recognition from the ALA!