The Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC) has hired Rose Vespa as executive director, effective Jan. 7, 2019. Vespa takes over for Charlotte Teeple – who retired from the position after 22 years – and will be based in the Toronto office of the national not-for-profit organization.

A graduate of Western Ontario (Bachelor of Arts) and the University of Liverpool’s Master of Public Administration program, Vespa has spent her career in library services and in public-sector leadership roles, including most recently as director of library services for the Mississauga Library System. “Children’s literature is a gateway to learning, creativity, and empathy” said Vespa in a statement. “I began my career as a children’s librarian and I am looking forward to working with the board, the members, and the CCBC staff to continue the good work of advocating for Canadian children’s authors, illustrators and literature.”