By Jessica Gelgand / Full360 Reporter
For 29 years, Peter Kupersmith has been the steady hand guiding Delaware Valley University’s library, in a time marked by shifts in information access and a dedication to student success. From card catalogs to the digital age, Kupersmith has navigated these changes while preserving the library’s personalized, “mom and pop” atmosphere.
“A lot of things have changed, and the mission of the library has really changed since I’ve been
here,” Kupersmith said.
As director, Kupersmith manages budgets, shapes library policy, curates the collection, and connects with students. When describing his role, he explains “top of the food chain, but never far removed,” reflecting his hands-on approach.
He credits his path to DelVal to luck. As an avid reader and classics major, Kupersmith was drawn to academic settings. He found his calling in the library’s tranquility.
“The library was always a safe, quiet place,” he recalls.
A DelVal job posting proved a “lucky day.” The university’s experiential education and engaging faculty resonated deeply. “The faculty is particularly interesting.”
With a library science master’s degree from the University of Texas, Kupersmith brought expertise in collection development and the publishing industry.
The internet’s arrival in the early 90s was a big moment. Early 90s, internet, oh my god, what’s that going to turn into?” he recalls. “It completely changed my job and the way we do things.”
He expects all information to be digital in the future. Despite the digital revolution, Kupersmith holds onto libraries and reading.
“People are better informed and it’s good for people to be curious and to read,” he emphasizes, urging students to cultivate critical reading and avoid relying solely on social media. “Students need to read.”
He believes the library’s strength lies in its personal connections with students. “We’re there,” he says, highlighting personalized research assistance. “Students are so used to just searching online, but the librarians can help with research really well.”
Challenges like budget constraints and information overload exist, but Kupersmith stays optimistic about fostering lifelong learners. “Our aim is that students are lifelong learners,” he states.
He acknowledges a perceived decline in the library’s prestige among young people. Yet, a core group of students find it a quiet, studious, safe place. He also values working with student employees, witnessing their growth.
“Mom and pop library in the age of Walmart,” Kupersmith reflects, showing the deep connections within DelVal’s library. His ability to connect with students, encourage intellectual curiosity, and guide their academic journeys has made him a vital part of the community. His dedication to student success ensures the library remains a vital resource. He enjoys seeing
students who come in with one goal, and then through conversations and research at the library, change their focus and find a more suitable path. He tries to make the library a welcoming place where students feel comfortable to ask questions. He notes that the library is a place where students can train themselves to read and make that a habitual part of their lives.