In Memoriam: Mark E. Smith, Performing Arts Librarian
To know Mark was to know one of the gentlest human beings that walked the earth. I say this as someone who was fortunate to have benefited from Mark’s kindness and warmth time and again, in and out of the library. However we think about the soul, it was clear that Mark’s was deeply warm and caring.
Mark worked at Purchase College for 36 years: first, as the Music Librarian and, for the last 22 years, as Performing Arts Librarian and Head of Access Services. He also served as interim director in 1998/99.
Mark had a distinguished career. He was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. In 1990, he received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Librarianship. He was an active member of the Music Libraries Association having served on several committees and as Chair of the Greater New York Chapter. Particularly noteworthy is Mark’s service to the College. He served on numerous College and Library committees. Most notably, he was the Library’s representative on PPC for many years.
Mark’s love of music, dance, film, and theatre was reflected in all of his work. He assisted countless students and faculty members with their research in these fields. He was a loyal patron of the arts on campus – regularly attending performances. Mark was also a life-long learner, continuing to take classes, particularly in dance, throughout his years at the College.
To say the obvious, Mark will be missed, but, truer still, Purchase will be a little less Purchase for his loss.
(Obituary by Barry Pearson, Provost)
Please join us for a Memorial Service for Mark Smith at the Purchase College Library, Second Floor. The service will take place on Wednesday, July 19 at 2:00pm-3:30pm with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mark’s memory may be made to Country Dance and Song Society or Purchase College Foundation.
