University Libraries

By Kathy Webb

Thirty years ago, I accepted a position as an instructor and government documents librarian in the University of Dayton Libraries. At that time, I could never have imagined I was starting on a journey that would take me to where I am today. After serving 18 years as dean of the UD Libraries, I am retiring and saying goodbye to what has become my second home. 

My Libraries colleagues, past and present, have consistently displayed collegiality, humor, collaboration, enthusiasm, kindness, innovation, ideas and commitment to the Libraries mission and vision. Together, we have built an effective and caring organization that is seen as a strategic partner and a destination for the campus. I am filled with pride at our collective accomplishments.

As a faculty member and then a University administrator, I have been blessed with so many opportunities to say “yes” at UD. Sometimes I was sure of my yes decisions; other times I was worried I didn’t know what I was agreeing to do. But through all the job changes, meetings, committee and task force assignments, events, and “other duties as assigned,” UD’s Catholic and Marianist mission and identity was the thread that helped guide me in my work.  I am so very grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the growth of this institution. While I am saying goodbye to my daily responsibilities to UD, I am keeping my commitment to the Marianist mission that defines our University.

As I think about leaving Roesch Library through the staff entrance for the last time, I am reminded of March 20, 2020. On that day, the Libraries officially closed down due to the pandemic. I was the last person to leave the building. As I turned off the light in my office and set the building alarm, I was incredibly sad. I didn’t know when I would be back in the building, and everything felt so unfinished. This time, while I will be sad, I won’t be feeling unfinished. While there are lots of initiatives that I have worked on that I won’t see through to completion, they don’t feel unfinished. Instead, they feel more like ocean currents. I know that when I swim out of them, they will continue on, directed by one of my talented colleagues. I am confident about the future of the Libraries and UD and look forward to watching it grow and excel.

For me, I am going to try and follow the advice of poet and priest John O’Donohue, who said,

Though your destination is not yet clear
You can trust the promise of this opening;

Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning
That is at one with your life’s desire. 

Awaken your spirit to adventure;
Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk;

Soon you will home in a new rhythm,
For your soul senses the world that awaits you.

While I search for that new rhythm, I will cherish my memories of the vibrant, dynamic community that is our university. Go Flyers.

 — Kathy Webb is dean emerita of the University Libraries. She retired in December, concluding a distinguished 30-year career as an academic leader and faculty member at the University of Dayton. Read the announcement.