The Swiss National Library has announced a significant leadership change at the Swiss Literary Archives (SLA). Lucas Marco Gisi, a distinguished literature scholar, will take over as the new head starting January 1. He succeeds Irmgard Wirtz Eybl, who has led the archive since 2006 and is retiring at the end of the year.
Key Takeaways
- Lucas Marco Gisi becomes the new head of the Swiss Literary Archives.
- He takes over from Irmgard Wirtz Eybl, who retires after 19 years.
- Gisi has extensive academic and archival experience, including leading the Robert Walser-Archive.
- The SLA, founded in 1991, preserves important literary legacies.
New Leadership at Swiss Literary Archives
Lucas Marco Gisi's appointment marks a new chapter for the Swiss Literary Archives. The Swiss National Library, which oversees the SLA, confirmed his new role. Gisi's background in literature and his prior experience within the archives position him well for this leadership position.
His tenure officially begins on January 1. This transition follows the retirement of Irmgard Wirtz Eybl, who has been a key figure at the SLA for nearly two decades. Wirtz Eybl's leadership from 2006 to 2025 saw significant growth and development for the institution.
Background on the Swiss Literary Archives
The Swiss Literary Archives (SLA) is a vital part of the Swiss National Library. It was established in 1991. The idea for its creation came from the renowned Swiss author Friedrich Dürrenmatt. The SLA is responsible for collecting, preserving, and making accessible literary estates, archives, and authors' libraries from the 20th and 21st centuries. It serves as a central hub for Swiss literary research.
Gisi's Extensive Academic and Archival Background
Lucas Marco Gisi brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His academic career includes significant contributions to various Swiss universities. He served as a research associate and lecturer at the Universities of Bern, Basel, and Lausanne. He also taught at the FHNW, a prominent university of applied sciences.
Beyond Switzerland, Gisi gained international experience. He worked as a guest lecturer in Denmark. He also spent time as a Visiting Scholar at the University of California Berkeley. This broad exposure to different academic environments has enriched his perspective on literary studies and archival management.
"Lucas Marco Gisi's deep understanding of literature and his proven leadership in archival management make him an ideal choice for this important role," stated a representative from the Swiss National Library.
Leadership at Robert Walser-Archiv
A significant part of Gisi's career was his leadership of the Robert Walser-Archiv in Bern. He headed this institution from 2009 to 2018. During his nine years there, he oversaw the management and accessibility of the works of the influential Swiss writer Robert Walser. This experience provided him with direct insight into the specific needs and challenges of managing literary estates.
Since 2018, Gisi has been actively involved with the Swiss Literary Archives. He has served as the co-head of the Research and Mediation Department within the SLA. This role allowed him to contribute to the archive's core mission of making literary heritage accessible to researchers and the public.
Key Facts About Lucas Marco Gisi
- Studied German, History, and Philosophy at the Universities of Bern and Florence.
- Holds a Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Public Management from ZHAW.
- Published multiple works on modern literature.
- Co-led the Research and Mediation Department at SLA since 2018.
Educational Background and Publications
Gisi's academic journey began with studies in German, History, and Philosophy. He pursued these fields at the Universities of Bern and Florence. This interdisciplinary approach provided him with a strong foundation for literary analysis and historical context.
In addition to his academic degrees, Gisi further specialized in management. He completed a Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Public Management at the ZHAW. This qualification is particularly relevant for leading an institution like the Swiss Literary Archives, which operates within the public sector.
He is also a recognized author in his field. Gisi has published several works focusing on modern literature. His publications contribute to ongoing academic discourse and reflect his deep engagement with literary scholarship. These contributions highlight his expertise and commitment to the study of literature.
The Role of the Swiss Literary Archives
The Swiss Literary Archives plays a crucial role in preserving Switzerland's cultural heritage. It collects and maintains a vast array of materials from prominent Swiss authors. These include manuscripts, letters, personal documents, and entire libraries. The archives ensure that these valuable resources are available for future generations of scholars and enthusiasts.
By safeguarding these literary legacies, the SLA supports research and promotes a deeper understanding of Swiss literature. It acts as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting contemporary readers and scholars with the works and lives of significant literary figures.
The appointment of Lucas Marco Gisi is expected to further strengthen the SLA's mission. His blend of academic rigor, archival experience, and leadership skills will be instrumental in guiding the institution forward. The Swiss National Library looks forward to his contributions in preserving and promoting Swiss literary heritage.