University Library E-News
Our Special Collections & Archives librarians were gratified to learn this past July that their project, “American Government Traditions: Federal, State, and Local Intersections in Post-War Los Angeles,” had been awarded $284,235 in grant funding from the National Endowment of the Humanities (NEH).
CSUN’s Special Collections & Archives is no stranger to NEH-funded projects, but the NEH itself has been in the news for having cancelled $100 million in previously awarded grants on ideological grounds, later reinstated under a judge’s order. Head Archivist and grant Project Director Ellen Jarosz remarks, “NEH grants are always competitive, and have felt even more so in recent years. We were hopeful, if not optimistic, that the grant would be awarded. Finding out NEH had chosen to fund the proposal was a wonderful surprise.”
The University Library’s newest Special Collections and Archives exhibition invites visitors to consider what imaginary journeys can reveal about real life.
Journeys of the Imagination examines the enduring human tradition of creating and sharing stories about unfamiliar places, remarkable people, and extraordinary events. The exhibition connects ancient epics, including stories of Gilgamesh, Beowulf, and Odysseus, with modern fantasy and science fiction, demonstrating how imagined worlds continue to shape the way people understand themselves and their communities.
The University Library’s Spring 2026 student employee scholarship recipients represent an exceptionally diverse group of Library student employees, spanning disciplines from the arts and humanities to STEM, environmental science, business, film, and health professions. Many are first-generation or international students, CSUN Dean's List scholars, student leaders, researchers, club officers, presenters at academic conferences, and/or participants in prestigious internships and clinical programs.
United by selfless service, resilience, academic excellence, and remarkable work ethic, these University Library student employees exemplify how dedication, leadership, and learning can transform both individual futures and the communities they serve.
If you happen to spot a corgi riding through town in a backpack, chances are you’ve found Jordan Nielsen, the University Library’s new Associate Dean. Whether crocheting on the porch while listening to audiobooks, exploring the city with their beloved corgi, Huckleberry, or championing innovative ways to support students, Jordan brings curiosity, creativity, and a people-first approach to everything they do. After more than 14 years in academic libraries, they are excited to help shape the future of the University Library at California State University, Northridge. We invite you to get to know Jordan!
The University Library community mourns the loss of Michael Barrett, Emeritus Librarian, who passed away in March 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. Michael devoted more than four decades of his life to California State University, Northridge, leaving behind a legacy defined by service, scholarship, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to students.
Michael joined the CSUN University Library faculty in 1972 as a Reference Librarian, beginning a remarkable 45-year career that would touch countless lives. Throughout his tenure, he became known not only for his expertise as a librarian but also for his kindness, professionalism, and genuine care for others. Colleagues remember him as a diligent bibliographer, a trusted mentor, and a warm presence whose welcoming smile brightened the library each day.
