Robert A. Seal, dean of university libraries at Loyola University Chicago, is the 2015 ACRL Academic/Research Librarian of the Year.

Over the course of his career, Seal has demonstrated his commitment to developing the academic library in a number of ways. Known as a staunch advocate for international library cooperation, his ability to share information in a bilingual environment has made Seal a strong advocate for breaking down barriers and extending partnerships between libraries in the United States and Latin America. In addition, Seal is recognized both as a strong, visionary leader and as a caring mentor to new and experienced academic librarians.