Former US President Donald Trump has unexpectedly dismissed Carla Hayden from her role as Librarian of Congress, ending her tenure with immediate effect.
The notification was reportedly delivered via email late Thursday by the White House Office of Presidential Personnel.
Carla Hayden, who was confirmed to the position in 2016, made history as the first woman and the first African American to serve as Librarian of Congress.
Her appointment was hailed as a milestone for diversity and inclusion in one of the most respected cultural institutions in the United States.
A spokesperson for the Library of Congress confirmed that the White House formally informed Hayden of her termination. The reasons behind the decision remain unclear, and no announcement has yet been made regarding a successor.
During her nearly decade-long leadership, Hayden spearheaded efforts to modernise the Library of Congress, expand digital access, and bring transparency to its collections.
Her work focused on improving public engagement, increasing online resources, and ensuring that the library served all Americans, regardless of background.
The abrupt nature of her dismissal has raised concerns among library advocates and public sector observers, particularly given the traditionally nonpartisan and long-term nature of the role.
The Librarian of Congress typically serves a 10-year term and is expected to remain politically neutral while preserving the nation’s literary and historical records.