Mark Newton to Step Down as University Librarian on March 30

From Dr. Gloria Waters, University Provost and Chief Academic Officer

I write to share that Mark P. Newton, who has served as University Librarian since June 2023, will step down from this role and depart Boston University effective March 30, 2026.

Mark has been at BU since 2019 and first stepped into the University Librarian role ad interim in July 2021. During his tenure, he advanced several foundational priorities for BU Libraries, including strengthening organizational capacity through the creation of new units focused on digital services, discovery, and access. He reinforced Boston University’s special collections and archives program through new leadership appointments, including the recruitment of an associate University librarian for special collections and BU’s first University Archivist, while improving storage, security, and research support for these distinctive holdings. He has also contributed to University-wide efforts, including serving on steering and implementation committees.

We will soon launch a national search for our next University Librarian. Given her supervision of BU Libraries, Associate Provost for Academic Initiatives & Operational Excellence Sarah Hokanson will provide leadership support to the library team during the transition. Details about the search committee and timeline will be shared in the coming weeks.

Please join me in thanking Mark for his contributions. I also want to extend my gratitude to our Libraries staff for their continued dedication and commitment to providing excellent service to the University community.

Mark Newton to Step Down as University Librarian on March 30 – 3.11.26