Stephen Abram Moves from SirsiDynix to Gale/Cengage

Strong opinions on libraries to continue in "product engagement" role

Josh Hadro -- Library Journal, 12/18/2009

• VP of strategic partnerships and markets at Gale
• Will continue role as library speaker and pundit
• Move follows other staff shifts at SirsiDynix

Stephen Abram—the well-known library pundit and occasional lightning rod for debate—is leaving his position as VP of innovation for the integrated library system (ILS) vendor SirsiDynix. As of January 1, 2010, he will take up a new position at Gale, part of Cengage Learning, as VP of strategic partnerships and markets.

Describing himself as a "change agent," Abram told LJ that part of his task in his new role would be to help Gale transform itself from being known as publisher of directories and databases to a company known for facilitating "community experiences."

“That’s the next stage: product engagement,” Abram said.

Opinions to continue
Of his decision to move on from his position of almost five years, Abram tweeted on Tuesday evening: "Great day. Finally took the step I needed to take."

For years, Abram has vocally advocated for innovation and library engagement with their communities, earning him a nomination in 2002 as one of LJ's inaugural class of Movers & Shakers. In the course of Abram's speaking engagements and writings, he's also been known to spark controversy and discussion. Most recently, Abram authored a document harshly critical of the growing domain of open source software that competes with many parts of SirsiDynix's product line, sparking criticism, dismay, and some support from those involved in the debate.

Abram said the controversy had nothing to do with the move, adding that he stands behind what he wrote. “You tend to make people uncomfortable” with unconventional opinions, Abram said.

As he moves on, Abram will also take with him the contents of his blog, Stephen's Lighthouse (currently hosted by SirsiDynix), including its entire archives. Once a new domain is established, he told LJ, the blog will continue.

Speaking on behalf of SirsiDynix, Julianne Hancock, marketing and communications, said that the SirsiDynix Institute's programming would continue as planned. Abram will continue his relationship with the Instutitute as an invited speaker and will still present at upcoming SirsiDynix user group meetings.

SirsiDynix looks within
In its announcement, SirsiDynix framed Abram's departure as an opportunity to look within its own ranks for new voices on innovation, citing VP of strategic library development Berit Nelson and CTO Talin Bingham. "We will continue to look at our talent within for players who will participate in and drive conversations as Stephen did," said SirsiDynix CEO Gary Rautenstrauch.

Abram's move follows a number of staff shifts and departures at SirsiDynix in recent months, including an executive "realignment" announced in October [pdf]. COO Matt Hawkins assumed oversight of sales and marketing, and chief strategy officer John Gardiner was appointed CFO, after the departures of Keith Sturges (CMO) and David Breck (CFO).

Update: Abram has written about the move on his blog: "The position is new to me, but the challenges represent a return to my roots in content licensing, portal development, and research, learning, community and experience products for libraries."

Marshall Breeding has also posted comments on his GuidesPosts blog, expressing a similar sentiment: "Gale Cengage represents a natural career move when considering the other content companies with which he has been involved."

Contact the author: josh.hadro@reedbusiness.com