Remembering State Librarian Randy Riley
The Michigan Academic Library Association extends our deepest sympathy over the loss of State Librarian, Randy Riley, and expresses our condolences to Randy’s family, his friends, his Library of Michigan colleagues, and the many individuals whose lives and work he impacted.
Randy was a highly visible and respected leader in Michigan, and his passion for libraries was palpable to everyone he met. Interacting with Randy was an honor, a chance to engage with an influential leader, or to share many library successes based on support from the Library of Michigan. For those that knew him, he was a warm, personable, and down-to-earth individual who took his service to libraries seriously and willingly shared his expertise, helping mentor many individuals who looked to him for guidance.
His efforts to support libraries in Michigan are too numerous to mention, and his support for academic libraries leaves a lasting legacy. He oversaw numerous statewide programs integral to higher education and academic librarians such as the Michigan eLibrary, statewide databases, grants, professional development, and the Michigan Notable Books program. He had a long professional history with special collections and was also looking towards the future – moving MeL to a new discovery platform and playing a founding role in the creation of both the Michigan Service Hub (DPLA) and the Michigan Digital Preservation Network (MDPN). For many practitioners in Michigan, it would be difficult – if not impossible – to define all the ways in which his work, and his influence, improved our libraries and helped us better serve our communities.
The loss we feel is visceral and real. While the Michigan library community mourns the loss of Randy, we know his enduring contributions will live on for years to come.