David Seaman will continue his role as dean of Syracuse University Libraries and University Librarian for another five years. This appointment marks Seaman’s third term since he took the position in 2015. The decision was confirmed by Interim Vice Chancellor, Provost, and Chief Academic Officer Lois Agnew after a thorough review.
“Dean Seaman is a committed leader with a strong, modern vision for the Libraries,” stated Provost Agnew. “During his time as dean, he has fostered a positive culture and high staff morale, raised resources and served as a capable advocate for the Libraries on campus.”
Seaman’s leadership has positioned the Libraries as a significant contributor to research and discovery at the University. The collections are curated to support the needs of University researchers, and the staff is actively involved across campus. Libraries facilities have seen a transformation, enhancing spaces like the Mower Faculty Commons and Blackstone LaunchPad for interdisciplinary use.
Under Seaman’s tenure, the Libraries’ rank in the Association of Research Libraries improved from 83 to 56. The Libraries also received the Insight Into Diversity magazine’s 2025 Library Excellence in Access and Diversity Award, and was recognized by the U.S. Government Publishing Office for having the best website in the Federal Depository Library Program in 2024.
Seaman’s efforts have heightened the Libraries’ visibility, expanded partnerships, boosted fundraising, and spurred innovation. He has underscored the Libraries’ integral role in the University’s academic life.
“I am delighted to be reappointed as dean and to continue to ensure that the Libraries are a core element of the Syracuse student experience, a driver of discovery and research excellence, and a communal hub for innovation,” Seaman said. “I am fortunate to work on a campus that values its libraries and to have such wonderful library colleagues who are committed to our shared mission to catalyze collaborations, foster curiosity, and create spaces and services that are welcoming to all.”
Prior to joining Syracuse, Seaman held library leadership roles at Dartmouth College, the Digital Library Federation, and the University of Virginia. He has an extensive background in humanities computing and digital libraries and has taught at the University of Virginia’s Rare Book School for many years.
