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2026 Distinguished Librarian Award

May 11, 2026
Image: John Vallier
John Vallier

We are pleased to share the news that UW Libraries’ Ethnomusicology Archives Curator, John Vallier, has been awarded the 2026 Distinguished Librarian Award, in conjunction with the annual UW Awards of Excellence, celebrating outstanding faculty, staff, students and alumni whose achievements support the University’s mission.

John was nominated for the Distinguished Librarian Award for his significant contributions to the UW Ethnomusicology program and beyond. Since assuming the role of curator for the Ethnomusicology Archives in 2017,  John’s work has been centered around outreach to constituents beyond the UW Libraries, whether it is working to help preserve Indigenous language recordings, or archiving local music.

In addition to his work archiving unique language and music recordings for the Ethnomusicology Archives, he has taught in a variety of departments, including Comparative History of Ideas (CHID), Honors, Cinema and Media Studies, Museology, and Music.

John’s integrity, commitment to teaching and expertise in the field were common themes among the nominating letters submitted on his behalf:

“His work in the UW Libraries is profoundly creative, represents impressive leadership, is aimed at an intersection of service and scholarship, and deeply demonstrates UW values of integrity, diversity, excellence, collaboration, innovation, and respect.”

“Through his writing, teaching, and archives-related practice, Vallier has advanced efforts to embed ethics of community-engagement, ethical curation, and repatriation in the library and archives profession.”

UW colleagues are invited to the Awards of Excellence ceremony in Meany Hall at 3:30 p.m. on June 11. The program includes a one-hour ceremony hosted by President Jones and Provost Serio, followed by a reception.

Congratulations, John!

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