Mark Stover, Ph.D.
Retired Dean, University Library
Mark Stover served as the Dean of the University Library at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) from 2011 until his retirement in 2024. He managed a diverse team of 85 staff members and librarians, along with 100 student employees, fostering a collaborative and dynamic work environment. During his tenure, Mark oversaw several multi-million-dollar renovations, including the $2.5 million design and construction of the Learning Commons, the $2.1 million expansion of Special Collections and Archives, and the development of the Creative Media Studio. His efforts significantly modernized the Library, enhancing its role as a central hub for student learning and engagement.
Mark previously held a variety of faculty and administrative positions at San Diego State University as well as other academic institutions.
Mark's time at CSUN was marked by his ability to cultivate and steward transformative initiatives, including the establishment of the first Endowed Librarian position in the California State University (CSU) system, funded by a major gift of $500,000. He played a key role in integrating significant collections into the Library, such as the CSUN Map Collection, the Deaf Studies Collection, and the Tom & Ethel Bradley Center Archives, expanding the breadth and depth of the Library's resources. Additionally, he launched innovative programs like the Gohstand Reading Room Biennial Lecture Series and the San Fernando Valley Award for Fiction and Non-Fiction, which enriched the cultural and intellectual life of the campus community.
Mark's leadership extended beyond administrative accomplishments to impactful community and cultural projects, such as the CSUN Library Tataviam Mural Project. From 2022 to 2024, he collaborated with the Tataviam Band of Mission Indians, the CSUN American Indian Studies program, and a selection jury comprised of CSUN faculty, ensuring the mural's cultural authenticity and academic relevance. His commitment to diversity and inclusion was also evident in his leadership of one of the first campus Open Access Resolutions in the CSU, promoting equitable access to scholarly resources.
Beyond his administrative roles, Mark's academic background includes a master's degree in library and information science from UCLA and a Ph.D. in information science from Nova Southeastern University. He has authored numerous articles and books on topics ranging from stewardship in higher education to creativity and innovation in libraries, and from library leadership to information ethics. He has also served as the editor of two journals, presented at many professional conferences, and served on multiple journal editorial boards. Mark's contributions to the field of librarianship have been recognized with several awards, including the American Psychological Association "Excellence in Librarianship" Award in 2007 and the San Diego State University Alumni Association “Outstanding Faculty Contribution” Award in 2006. His leadership, scholarship, and dedication to the profession have left a lasting legacy at CSUN and beyond.
Mark has an interest in the application of emerging technologies to the library experience, but also recognizes the importance of the library as a physical presence on campus. He is confident that the Library has an enduring value as a campus space for students to research, study, learn, and find inspiration. "I believe that libraries play a vital role in 21st century higher education. Students must become competent in finding and analyzing information if they are to be successful in transitioning to a highly competitive workforce."