Having spent 20 years as a Shakespeare scholar at the Globe and then at King's since 2020 here in the heart of London, I have had the opportunity to learn so much about creating public programmes and making scholarly endeavours accessible. I look forward to leading the Folger as it embarks on this exciting new adventure and can't wait to get started!
Professor Farah Karim-Cooper, Globe Professor of Shakespeare Studies
31 May 2024
King's professor to lead Folger Shakespeare Library
Professor Farah Karim-Cooper from King’s Department of English has been named as the new director of the Folger Shakespeare Library and will be the first person of colour to head the institution.
![Professor Farah Karim-Cooper](/newimages/ah/professor-farah-karim-cooper-2.xec24acdd.png?w=780&h=585&crop=780,440,0,73&f=webp)
Professor Karim-Cooper's role, which commences in October 2024, will be to develop the Folger's vision and build on its work. Since its founding in 1932, it has expanded its mission, developed a theatre programme and education wing, and introduced scholarly programmes and fellowships through its research wing.
After four years of renovations and closure, the Folger re-opens in June 2024 as a more public-facing cultural centre with two brand new exhibition halls.