Professor Emerita Carla J. Stoffle Inducted into Wisconsin Library Hall of Fame

The College of Information at the University of Arizona is proud to celebrate the induction of Carla J. Stoffle, professor emerita and former dean of U of A Libraries, into the Wisconsin Library Hall of Fame. A transformative figure in academic librarianship, Stoffle’s legacy is defined by her pioneering vision of the teaching library, her leadership in integrating libraries into the heart of university education and her lifelong commitment to mentoring the next generation of library professionals.

A Visionary in Academic Librarianship

Before joining the University of Arizona in 1991, Stoffle played a pivotal role in reshaping academic libraries during her tenure at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. As a reference librarian, head of public services and eventually assistant director, she championed a groundbreaking concept: libraries were not merely repositories of books but essential partners in the teaching and learning process.

Her vision led to the establishment of information literacy coursework as a required component of the undergraduate curriculum at institutions such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This reimagining of the academic library as a hub of active learning laid the foundation for modern information commons, including the Business and Chemistry Information Commons at UW-Madison and the Learning Commons at Carroll University.

Stoffle’s influence extended beyond the physical library. As online learning gained prominence, she helped shape embedded librarian programs at institutions such as the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and several Wisconsin technical colleges, ensuring that students had critical research support in virtual environments.

A Leader in Higher Education and Library Innovation

Recognizing her leadership, UW-Parkside appointed Stoffle to high-level administrative roles beyond the library, including executive assistant to the chancellor and assistant chancellor for educational services. Her work in integrating libraries into university strategy continued when she became deputy director of the University of Michigan Libraries before making her lasting impact at the University of Arizona.

As U of A dean of Libraries from 1991 to 2013 and a professor in the School of Information (now College of Information Science), Stoffle led major efforts to modernize academic libraries. Her commitment to access, organizational change and student-centered services extended beyond Arizona, influencing national policies and practices. She also helped establish the Knowledge River Scholars Program, a groundbreaking initiative to support the education, recruitment and retention of library and information professionals dedicated to serving the needs of their local communities.

An Enduring Legacy of Mentorship and Scholarship

Throughout her career, Stoffle has been not just a leader but a mentor. She recruited and nurtured talented librarians, inspiring colleagues who went on to lead institutions across the country. One of her mentees once reflected, “Before you came to Parkside, I had a job. After you came, I had a profession.”

Her impact is also reflected in her prolific scholarship. With over 60 articles and book chapters, Stoffle has written extensively on the future of academic libraries, budgeting, library instruction and equity in higher education. Her 1996 article, “Choosing Our Futures” in College and Research Libraries, was named one of seven “landmark” articles published by the Association of College and Research Libraries.

Her contributions have been recognized with some of the highest honors in the field, including the Melvil Dewey Award, Joseph Lippincott Award, American Library Association Equality Award, Elizabeth Futas Catalyst for Change Award and Academic Librarian of the Year.

A Lasting Recognition

Stoffle’s induction into the Wisconsin Library Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to a career that has reshaped academic libraries and the role of librarians in higher education.

“Carla Stoffle’s impact on academic libraries and the broader field of information science cannot be overstated,” says College of Information Science Interim Dean Catherine Brooks. “She transformed not only the institutions where she worked but also the way we think about the role of libraries in education. Her leadership at the University of Arizona helped shape our college’s values of innovation, access and student-centered learning. This recognition from the Wisconsin Library Hall of Fame is a testament to her extraordinary legacy, and we are proud to count her among our own.”

At the University of Arizona, we celebrate her achievements with pride and gratitude, recognizing the profound impact she has made on students, educators and the future of libraries. Stoffle’s influence will continue to shape the future of libraries and information science for generations to come.
 

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