The First Librarian, Cora Miltimore

Abstract

This article examines the transformative impact of Cora Miltimore, the first professionally educated librarian at the University of Florida. Miltimore's tenure marked a pivotal shift in the library's operations and its role within the university community, as she advocated for professional standards and expanded resources in response to the growing student population. Initially housed in a modest space with limited holdings, Miltimore's persistence led to the establishment of a dedicated library building in 1925, significantly enhancing its collections and services. The article highlights her innovative approaches, including her travels to study leading college libraries and her collaboration with architects, which laid the foundation for a modern library system. Furthermore, it underscores her dedication to elevating the status of librarianship within the academic faculty and her efforts to professionalize library staff. Miltimore's legacy is characterized by her unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of students and advancing library services, ultimately shaping the future of the University Library before her retirement in 1937.