Susan Brynteson, a longtime librarian and administrator at the University of Delaware, passed away on May 26, 2025. She was 89 years old.
After stints with the libraries at several institutions across the country, Brynteson began her career with the University of Delaware in 1980 as director of libraries. By 2001, she had earned the title of May Morris University Librarian. In 2008, she gained the additional title of vice provost.
During Brynteson’s 35-year tenure, the University of Delaware Library significantly expanded its infrastructure; joined the prestigious Association of Research Libraries; advanced its technology services and digital catalogues; created numerous academic and mentoring programs; acquired papers from several U.S. senators, including then-Vice President Joe Biden; and became the home of the University of Delaware Press.
In 2016, Brynteson retired as the May Morris Librarian Emerita. For her many contributions to the university, she was awarded the University of Delaware Medal of Distinction. Additionally, the university established the Library Director Fund for Innovation and Creativity in her honor.
A native of Huntington, West Virginia, Brynteson earned her bachelor’s degree in philosophy and her master’s degree in library science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.