Scott Seaman to retire as dean of Ohio University Libraries

Photo courtesy of: Ohio University Communications and MarketingScott Seaman, dean of Ohio University Libraries, will be retiring, effective Dec. 31, 2018.

Interim Executive Vice President and Provost Elizabeth Sayrs has announced that Scott Seaman will be retiring as dean of Ohio University Libraries, effective Dec. 31, 2018.

“Dean Seaman has provided distinguished leadership over a library system that dates back more than 200 years and that has, during his tenure, adapted to significant change in the way libraries are used and experienced,” Dr. Sayrs said. “Under his leadership, Ohio University Libraries is poised to continue its legacy, serving as a gateway for the teaching, learning, discovery and exchange of knowledge for our students, faculty, staff and the community for many years to come.”

Seaman joined University Libraries in April 2008, serving as dean of one of the top 100 research libraries in North America and overseeing library operations on all Ohio University campuses as well as the Hwa-Wei Lee Library Annex on Columbus Road in Athens. In his 10 years at OHIO, Seaman presided over a library system whose scholarly content shifted from printed materials to digitally produced and distributed materials and whose central facility – Alden Library – has more visits today than at any other time in its history. He has been instrumental in developing and launching a multi-phase renovation project of Alden Library as well as initiatives designed to provide students access to efficient, accessible and affordable course materials. 

Prior to joining OHIO, Seaman was employed at the University of Colorado at Boulder’s library system where he served as associate dean for 11 years. His library career began at the Online Computer Library Center in Dublin, Ohio, in 1984. 

“The opportunity to be dean of Ohio University Libraries has been exhilarating,” Dean Seaman said. “The work we’ve done at Alden Library is redefining what a 21st-century library system can be. Ohio University Libraries’ contribution to student and faculty success has never been more apparent. It has truly been a pleasure to work with the staff at University Libraries and all of our University partners.”

Plans for a national search to find the next dean of Ohio University Libraries will be announced at a later date.