LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 14, 2009) − Deirdre Scaggs has been appointed director of Archives in the University of Kentucky Libraries Special Collections and Digital Programs. As director, Scaggs is responsible for the administration of an archival program which includes Manuscripts, Audio-Visual Archives, Public Policy Archives, the University Archives and Records Program and the Bert T. Combs Appalachian Collection.

Scaggs, who holds a master's degree in library and information science with a concentration in archival studies from the University of Pittsburgh and a master's of fine arts degree from The Ohio State University, previously served UK as university archivist. In that capacity, she worked closely with departments and offices across campus. Additionally, as a member of the UK Historical Marker Committee she helps select marker subjects, prepares the text for each marker and supervises the documentation for every marker. Scaggs also works closely with UK Athletics to preserve the rich history of intercollegiate sports.

Dean of Libraries Carol Pitts Diedrichs said, “Deirdre represents the type of experienced archivist UK Libraries needs to lead the transition from traditional paper to digital archives with innovative access capabilities.”

Scaggs is an active member of the Society of American Archivists and is the immediate past chair of the Visual Materials Section, chairing the organization's recent meeting in San Francisco. She is also active in the Midwest Archives Conference and the Kentucky Council on Archives.

Scaggs' specialties include photographic history and visual materials. Her research interests include the history of women, the effectiveness of archival outreach programs, and strategies for meeting the demands of 21st century researchers while building a strong archival program. The author of "Images of America: Women in Lexington," Scaggs is presently working on a pictorial history of women at UK through World War II.