Meet Alice Finkelstein, Interim Director of Libraries at Hebrew Union College

Some people are so deeply connected to a place and its work that moving into a leadership role feels like a natural next step. That's the case for Alice Finkelstein.

After almost three decades in higher education - including time at Cincinnati State working in online learning and instructional design, and leadership roles at the University of Cincinnati and Xavier University Libraries - Finkelstein brings a rare combination of deep institutional knowledge and broad professional expertise to her new role as Interim Director of Libraries. Most recently, her seven years shaping the Klau Library's collections as Head of Technical Services have left her uniquely positioned to guide the library through this transitional period with both expertise and continuity.

Having worked with outgoing Director Jordan Finkin, Ph.D., for almost a decade, Finkelstein is "sad to see him go," but "thrilled for him and I will be watching his career closely." She's also deeply invested in the work of the Klau library. "The Klau Library has been a central part of my professional life. I am honored to step into this role and to help steward this remarkable institution through this transition. The Klau Library holds an invaluable place in the world of Jewish scholarship, and I look forward to working with our dedicated staff, faculty, and community to ensure it continues to thrive."

During her tenure in Technical Services, Finkelstein has been instrumental in shaping the operational excellence and scholarly integrity that define the Klau Library's collections and resources. Together with Klau colleagues, she implemented the increase of electronic resources that are critical to library users in the 21st Century. This work reflects a deep understanding of what makes this library not only a premier repository of Judaica and Hebrew materials, but a living center of learning for students, faculty, and researchers.

Just as importantly, Finkelstein knows and loves Cincinnati. A native Californian, she has called Cincinnati home for more than half her life, and that connection informs a genuine investment in this institution and the broader community it serves.

Provost Judah Cohen, Ph.D. notes: "We extend our deepest gratitude to Jordan for his years of dedicated service. Under his leadership, the Klau Library has grown, evolved, and continued to serve as an indispensable resource for scholars and students of Jewish history, culture, and thought. And now with Alice, we are fortunate to have someone at the helm who knows this library, knows this city, and brings a passion to serving this sacred community."