News
New Leadership in the Archives
June 23, 2015
June 23, 2015
Open gallery
Jason W. Dean, an accomplished librarian with a strong scholarly interest in history, rare books and archives has been appointed Director of Special Collections and Archives for the A. Frank Smith, Jr. Library Center at Southwestern University. Dean will join the Southwestern staff on August 3, 2015.
“As a native Texan and passionate advocate for providing broad access to special collection materials, I am honored to be joining Southwestern University in this capacity,” said Dean. “The Clark Texana materials and the vast set of Senator John Tower’s papers are only two examples from the institution’s collections that are nationally recognized as valuable resources for students and scholars. I look forward to working closely with students, faculty, staff, alumni, scholars and friends as we explore Southwestern’s array of rare and unique materials in a multitude of formats.”
Most recently, Dean served as the head of special formats cataloging and assistant librarian for the University of Arkansas Libraries. Previously, he was the technical services librarian and cataloger for the Crystal Bridges Museum of Art. He holds a B.B.S. in history from Hardin-Simmons University and an M.S. L.I.S. from Syracuse University.
“At a time of enhanced discovery, access and use of rare materials made possible through digitization and the Internet, we are excited about Jason Dean’s deep understanding of special collections, archives and technology. His experience and commitment to intellectual inquiry and innovation will be a tremendous asset for the Southwestern community,” said Pam McQuesten, vice president for information services.
Southwestern’s Special Collections and Archives include University archives, the Tower papers, Texana, Methodism, hymnals, 19th century American and British works, and works related to travel and description. The oldest item in Special Collections is a cuneiform from approximately 2000 BCE.
The Library Center is named for A. Frank Smith, Jr. of Houston, a distinguished trustee of Southwestern University for more than 25 years and former chair of the Board of Trustees.