Newsletter Edition: Fall 2025
In July 2025, the University Library welcomed a new dean, Emy Decker! Recently receiving a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration, Emy’s passion for libraries spans over 25 years. Her hands-on experience, positivity, and love of student engagement is already taking shape at CSUN.
Enjoy this up close and personal glimpse of Emy.
Who is Emy Decker?
I’m a Southern Californian, having spent my formative years right here in LA county (Long Beach). Although I’ve lived in 4 different states, California is home. I share my life with my husband and our two cats – Polly, the polydactyl (she has extra toes), and Ruby our chatty Siamese. Academically, I started at UC Santa Barbara for undergrad and went on to earn degrees from The University of Chicago, Valdosta State University, and the University of Alabama. Each step has shaped my journey in meaningful ways. Fun fact: I was once a hand model – my fingers had their own moment on national TV.
How did you become interested in pursuing a library career?
I originally started out in a graduate program for art history. But with student loan debt mounting, I paused after earning my MA and took a job cataloging digital images for classroom use. It was my first library-adjacent role—and I genuinely loved it. That experience led me to pursue an MLIS a few years later, and since then, every professional role I’ve held has been in academic libraries. It’s been a rewarding path I didn’t initially expect, but one I’m grateful for.
What is your biggest achievement, so far?
One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is using my professional experience to support and guide others in their own journeys. It’s incredibly rewarding to see colleagues in the libraries where I’ve held leadership roles grow, thrive, and become confident professionals. Helping to create an environment where people feel empowered and supported—that’s the kind of success that really matters to me.
What do you do for fun?
Lately, I’ve been loving the easy access to a swimming pool—it’s such a relaxing way to unwind. My husband and I are also teaching ourselves how to play pickleball, which has been a fun adventure. We’re both foodies, so we’re making the most of Southern California’s amazing culinary scene—Mexican, sushi, Indian, Chinese, and of course, In-N-Out (grilled cheese). As a pescatarian, it’s been a joy to live somewhere where eating fish-based meals is not only easy but delicious.
What are books are you currently reading for pleasure?
For me, anything that isn’t tied directly to research counts as pleasure reading. Right now, I’ve got a few meaningful titles on my nightstand: What Every Library Director Should Know by my library hero, Susan Curzon—a thoughtful surprise among a box of books left for me by former library dean Mark Stover. I’m also diving into A Dean’s Handbook for Philanthropy, a gift from Nichole Ipach after I shared my dream of finding that special donor to rename our University Library. It’s a mix of inspiration and aspiration, and I’m loving every page.
What genres of art do you find fascinating?
I began my studies with Classical Greek and Roman art, but my first MA thesis focused on 19th-century American art. Specifically I wrote about Edmund Burke’s idea of the sublime at it pertained to the turn-of-the-century New York cityscape. Although these genres differ significantly in style and context, I find both deeply engaging and continue to enjoy exploring them.
What is the best thing about being back in California?
Three things stand out:
- Easy access to beautiful beaches.
- Incredible food in the Valley – don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
- Being just 50 miles from my mother. She is close enough for me to be there when she needs me.
Do you have a guilty pleasure (you can talk about)?
University of Alabama Football. I know… But, I’ll put on my fan jersey on game days this fall and watch and yell at the TV from the privacy of my living room.
What do you think is the most important part of the University Library?
Without a doubt, it’s the people. During my “listening tour,” I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many thoughtful, dedicated, and hard-working librarians and staff. Their passion and commitment are inspiring, and it’s been a true joy getting to know everyone. I’m confident that, together, we’ll accomplish great things.