The academic and library communities were left in deep sorrow following the passing of Fobazi Ettarh, a powerful thinker and advocate whose voice reshaped conversations around librarianship and labor. She died on July 3, 2020, at just 36 years old, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence scholars and professionals around the world.See More…
Ettarh was widely known for coining the term “vocational awe,” a concept that challenged the way society views libraries as sacred institutions and highlighted how that mindset can lead to burnout and exploitation of library workers. Her work sparked essential discussions about workplace equity, mental health, and systemic reform within academic spaces.
At the time of her passing, she was a doctoral student in Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Colleagues described her as fearless, insightful, and deeply committed to justice. Her research and advocacy pushed institutions to confront uncomfortable truths and to rethink long-standing traditions.
Tributes poured in across social media from librarians, academics, and activists who credited Ettarh with transforming their understanding of professional identity and labor ethics. Many described her as a mentor and inspiration, even to those who had never met her personally. Her writing, though concise, carried enormous impact.
Though her life was tragically short, Fobazi Ettarh’s ideas continue to resonate in conferences, classrooms, and policy discussions. Her legacy serves as a reminder that one courageous voice can ignite lasting change — and that her influence will not be forgotten.
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