Karen Joyce Starr

Karen J. Starr, a devoted and strong-willed advocate for libraries and a cherished member of her community passed away on August 8, 2024, in Salem, Oregon, at the age of 71, due to complications related to cancer. Born on August 14, 1952, in Myrtle Creek, Oregon, Karen's life was a testament to her passion for library development, education, and community service.

Karen's distinguished academic achievements and professional contributions in library development spanned several states, including Oregon, Texas, Kansas, Idaho, New York, New Mexico, and Nevada, where she retired in 2016 as the Deputy State Librarian. Through her various career experiences across the nation, she brought a critical perspective to national policy by serving as a President of the Library & Information Technology Association and liaison to the American Library Association Office of Information Technology Policy. In addition, her international impact was highlighted by an ALA/Fulbright Library Fellowship teaching at the National Library School of Norway.

In her retirement, Karen continued to give back to the community by teaching hybrid courses for the librarian certification program at the University of Nevada, co-authoring a library sciences textbook, and serving as the treasurer for her homeowners' association. Beyond her professional achievements, Karen loved spending time with friends and family, exploring the outdoors, learning about history and cultures, reading crime novels, honing her fiber art skills, researching family genealogy, and providing the best care for her beloved pets.

Karen is survived by her two nieces, great niece and nephews, and sister-in-law. She was predeceased by her parents, Frank W. Starr and Alyce L. Starr, and her brother, Joel B. Starr.

Karen will be remembered for her lasting contributions to library development, her commitment to education, and her love for her family, friends, and community. She will be deeply missed by those who knew her. A memorial service is not scheduled at this time. In place of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to local Friends of the Library organizations.