Paul Metz was the Director of Collection Management and Principal Bibliographer at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University library from 1969 until his retirement in 2012. Metz was especially influential in the transition from print to digital materials in collections management, revolutionizing the library's accessibility of records and space management. In addition to his work in the library, Metz served as president of the Faculty Senate from 1995-1996, reflecting his important contributions to the university history. He published and conducted many influential papers and conferences on academic librarianship and records management, especially with regards to the digital age.

Receiving his bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina and his master's and doctorate from the University of Michigan, Metz was involved with such professional organizations as the Association of Research Libraries, the American Library Association, and Phi Beta Kappa. He was awarded the title of Professor Emeritus from the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors in 2012, a prestigious title given to an exceptional retired professor, librarian, or staff member.

Source: "Paul Metz honored with emeritus status", Virginia Tech News, June 8, 2012