March 12, 2001 Library Appoints New Inspector General

Librarian of Congress James H. Billington announces the appointment of Karl W. Schornagel as Inspector General, effective March 12, 2001.

Mr. Schornagel was most recently a senior auditor in the Office of the Inspector General in the Department of Commerce and project manager for evaluations of information technology resources. In this position, he planned and conducted complex financial, programmatic and information-technology reviews. Recent studies for which Mr. Schornagel has been recognized with his agency's silver and bronze medals of commendation have included an assessment of the acquisition and management of multibillion-dollar satellite systems and a multiagency analysis and correction of Y2K deficiencies.

"Karl Schornagel brings to the Library of Congress a wealth of experience in evaluating federal government programs," said Dr. Billington. "His more than 21 years of experience in this field make him amply qualified for his new role as the Library enters its third century of service to Congress and the nation." Mr. Schornagel will report to Dr. Billington.

"I strongly support the mission of the Library of Congress, and I look forward to making significant contributions to its continued success," said Mr. Schornagel. "It is an honor to be given this opportunity." Mr. Schornagel began his career in 1979 as a junior auditor in the Treasury Department's Financial Management Service. Since joining the Department of Commerce in 1985, he has served in various positions within the Office of the Inspector General, including director of the divisions of Automated Information Systems Audits, Economic Affairs Audits and Financial Management Audits. As Director of Quality Assurance, Mr. Schornagel established policy related to Government Accounting Office auditing standards and conducted internal quality reviews of compliance with audit and inspection standards.

A certified public accountant in Virginia and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Mr. Schornagel has completed more than 1,000 hours of specialized technical and management training related to auditing. He holds a bachelor of science degree in business administration from George Mason University.