Dreanna Belden, assistant dean for external relations at the UNT Libraries, is making history as the first librarian to be elected president of the Texas Association of Museums.

Belden’s two-year term began March 1, and her term ends in February 2017.

“It’s a tremendous honor and a big responsibility,” said Belden about leading the association. “I feel deeply honored that they trust me to do this when I am not your typical museum person. It’s also a reflection of UNT’s significant presence in the museum community through the impact of the Portal to Texas History.”

Used by millions of users each year, the UNT Libraries’ Portal to Texas History offers free access to Texas historical materials, including rare maps, photos and archives.

Belden said she plans to focus on growing the museum association’s membership base and making the association more financially sustainable.

Belden’s involvement with the organization reaches back to 2005 when she first joined as a member. I In 2011, she was the first librarian elected to its volunteer managing board, the TAM Council, She also was the association’s elected vice president for development from 2013 to 2015.

To learn more please see the UNT InHouse article, UNT librarian picked to lead museum group.