The head of Kansas University’s Spencer Research Library is stepping down from his post and entering partial retirement in the fall.

William Crowe, who has served as KU’s Spencer librarian for the past eight years, will work part-time in the fall as a special assistant to Dean of Libraries Lorraine Haricombe. Crowe said he anticipates being in the job for no more than three years as he makes the transition into retirement.

As Spencer librarian, Crowe has overseen a collection that includes more than 350,000 rare books, roughly 500,000 manuscripts and more than 2.5 million photographs as well as historical maps and scientific illustrations.

He previously served as KU dean of libraries and vice chancellor for information services.

“Bill is a valuable asset to KU, and we are fortunate he will remain an active partner as he enters phased retirement,” Haricombe said in an e-mail to staff. “In his new role, Bill and I will collaborate on selected projects that will benefit from his experience and strong commitment to KU and its libraries.”