You have been a pioneer, a visionary, a great friend to UW Educational Outreach and a questionable harmonica player.
You deserve the best of everything in your retirement!
Be well,
Clark
From Clark Westmoreland(October 17th, 2014 11:06 pm)
From all of us in the School of Information Studies at Charles Sturt University, Australia, all the very best in your retirement, Mike, and thanks again for the contribution you made towards our School’s program of curriculum and research renewal, which ultimately led to us joining the iSchool family!
Thanks
Philip
Assoc Prof Philip Hider
Head, School of Information Studies
Boorooma Street
Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678
Australia
Tel: +61 2 6933 2522
Fax: +61 2 6933 2733
Email: phider@csu.edu.au http://www.csu.edu.au
From Philip Hider(October 27th, 2014 3:13 pm)
Mike,
Wow! What a legacy. You’ve touched so many and accomplished so much with your boundless energy, enthusiasm, passion and genius. Really, you can retire? Really? Perhaps there’s a next act for you to continue to make an indelible difference.
All the best I your next chapter. Thank you so much for making such a difference to me and countless others. You’re the best!
Melody Ivory
From Melody ivory(November 7th, 2014 8:33 am)
Mike,
Wow! What a legacy. You’ve touched so many and accomplished so much with your boundless energy, enthusiasm, passion and genius. Really, you can retire? Really? Perhaps there’s a next act for you to continue to make an indelible difference.
All the best I your next chapter. Thank you so much for making such a difference to me and countless others. You’re the best!
Melody Ivory
From Melody ivory(November 7th, 2014 8:33 am)
Mike-
It’s been 8 years since I left the iSchool but I still operate with the “we can do this!” attitude that I loved about the iSchool; an attitude that started with your enthusiasm.
Thanks for setting such a high standard for how I operate in my everyday life.
Mike, You have been a mentor, friend, campaign supporter and inspiration. You gave me the early opportunity to teach and to work with you on the YA Author events. You always offered new and innovative ways to reach youth and adults that shaped the future of libraries. I have learned so much from you and it has been a true privilege work with you on more recent projects.
I wish you great happiness and more free time with family and friends. I hope that I can truly celebrate with you in the near future. Fondly, Sari Feldman
From Sari Feldman(November 18th, 2014 8:32 pm)
Mike- congratulations on an amazing career, and for connecting with so many people, for so long, on such a profound level.
Love,
Kim
From Kim Mills(November 20th, 2014 5:35 pm)
Mike,
I was lucky to meet you when I did — you have been a great mentor and helped me understand how much fun it is to connect people with information. Thanks for every opportunity you’ve given me and all the love that you and Carol have shown me over the years. I wish you a very happy retirement, and I hope our paths connect again soon.
Love,
Carrie
From Carrie (Lowe) McGuire(November 22nd, 2014 11:50 am)
Mike – From one SUNY Albany alum to another with lots of love for Syracuse University as well, you have made such a difference at UW and in our field. I am proud to be your colleague and friend. Best to you and Carol and your family in the future.
Best wishes
Susan Hildreth,
IMLS Director
From Susan Hildreth(November 23rd, 2014 10:22 pm)
I graduated from UW with my MLS before the iSchool. In fact, it was close to the end for library graduate studies there, but you helped to save the program! Thanks for your vision, persistence, courage, and passion. Enjoy your retirement!
From Liz Gilbert(December 2nd, 2014 10:24 pm)
Thanks for everything Mike! You’ve been a great inspiration for the program
From Tanner Means(December 2nd, 2014 10:25 pm)
Mike,
Thanks for your lasting contributions to the iSchool movement. You will be missed!
Mike, Thank you for your vision and leadership over the years.
I hope you enjoy your retirement. You will be missed!
Anne Turner
ISchool Class of 2001
From Anne Turner(December 2nd, 2014 10:31 pm)
Thank you for everything Mike! You have been an amazing teacher and inspiration to so many of us.
From Dania Tanzil(December 2nd, 2014 10:35 pm)
Mike,
Congratulations and best wishes for a fantastic retirement. Thanks for all of your service to the iSchool. Because of your leadership, I had the pleasure and honor of the best academic experience of my life.
Tim Merrick
MLIS, 2008
Boise, ID
From Tim Merrick(December 2nd, 2014 10:35 pm)
Mike, I attended the school in the late 1970s, and it was a good school. I’m thrilled by where you’ve taken it, and was so glad that Sherry Fuller led the team that made it possible. I’m impressed with your current graduates. Congratulations!
From Bob Pringle(December 2nd, 2014 10:36 pm)
Dear Mike,
Congratulations on your upcoming retirement from the UW iSchool!
Best wishes,
Amanda Hornby
iSchool alumn
UW Librarian
Odegaard Library
From Amanda Hornby(December 2nd, 2014 10:40 pm)
Hi Mike,
Congratulations on your well-earned retirement. It was a real pleasure to get know you a bit and to study under you!
Thanks for what you’ve done for me, the iSchool as a whole and the discipline!
Mark
From Mark Squire(December 2nd, 2014 10:41 pm)
Mike, best of luck for a long and interesting retirement. Thanks for all of the work you’ve done at and for the iSchool. You made a huge impact there and also in the field of library instruction.
From Sara Ranger(December 2nd, 2014 10:43 pm)
Thank you for the BIG 6! If only that had been available in 1955 for the first year I taught Jr. High students and for my library students in 1969. Signed, Sylvia Haven; a grateful UW Library School 1969 grad.
From sbhaven(December 2nd, 2014 10:48 pm)
Mike:
I’m so glad I got to take Info Literacy with you, who else would let us back-channel in class in 2007? and the Big 6!
You made the iSchool what it is today, and I thank you for it. Under your tutelage, the world is a more information literate place, and the Huskies have gained a great fan as well!
Congrats, and try to relax!
Elizabeth
From Elizabeth GOuld(December 2nd, 2014 11:00 pm)
You really started something big when you brought the I-school idea to the UW.
From Kim Emmons(December 2nd, 2014 11:04 pm)
Mike:
I want to thank you so much for the work you did and still do for the iSchool. Being a student back in 1998, when it was unclear what was going to happen to the school, having you come in and make it what it is now has been a pleasure to watch and be a part of.
Thank you so much.
-Sean McCain
From Sean McCAin(December 2nd, 2014 11:06 pm)
Mike,
You have been such a positive FORCE in the library and information industry–a real powerhouse. I’ve always been impressed with how fast you pick up ideas and how many weighty projects you are working on at once.
You were and are fabulous asset to the profession!
Cindy Romaine
SLA President 2011
From Cindy Romaine(December 2nd, 2014 11:09 pm)
Best wishes in your retirement. I had a wonderful time in my career as a librarian: school (K-12), Robert College in Istanbul, did some post grad at Cal’s Inf Studies, did some programming at UC, then automated UCSF library, Hayward Public Library, worked at Boalt Law Library, finally SF Law Library. UW’s program was my foundation. Thanks! It was a great career for me. I think you’ll have a great retirement. Mine is. : )
From Cheryl Armstrong (was Banister)(December 2nd, 2014 11:21 pm)
Mike,
Congratulations and thank you for your tireless work on information literacy issues throughout your career!
Enjoy your new, relaxing life!
Leslie Hurst
iSchool Alumn, 2003
Head of Teaching & Learning
UW Bothell/Cascadia Library
From Leslie Hurst(December 2nd, 2014 11:22 pm)
Congratulations and best wishes on your retirement, Mike! You inspired so many of us with your forward-looking, can-do vision for the iSchool. Even those of us who weren’t there when you purportedly jumped on the table at your first UW faculty meeting felt the reverberations of that energy—and hopefully will continue to feel it for many years! All the best.
Jon Haupt
iSchool MLIS (2003)
Wine Librarian
Sonoma County Wine Library
From Jon Haupt(December 2nd, 2014 11:32 pm)
It has been a joy and a privilege to work with and share ideas with Mike over the years. His passion ignites passion in those around him and shines a brilliant light in our profession. You will be sorely missed, but I know the next journey will be wonderful for you and your family!
With my respect and love,
Jerene
Jerene Battisti
King County System
Teen Services Coordinator
From Jerene Battisti(December 2nd, 2014 11:37 pm)
Mike,
Many thanks for all you have done to create such a brilliant program. You have forever changed the landscape of information science, not only putting the UW iSchool on the map, but improving the lives of so many around the world with a vision and dedication second to none. You are appreciated and you will be missed.
Mike
MLIS 2005
From Mike Doane(December 3rd, 2014 12:07 am)
Mike,
From the moment you arrived at UW in 1998, it was clear you were a force of nature. I was lucky enough to be co-president of the alumni group then, and was privileged to see your vision for transforming the Library School to the iSchool take place. Having graduated in 1997, I wished you could have arrived a few years earlier. Now I can’t believe they’re letting you get away – even for retirement.
Best wishes in all you do,
Elena
From Elena Bianco(December 3rd, 2014 12:50 am)
Mike,
Your wisdom and enthusiasm regarding information, technology, and their shared potential heavily influenced my decision to become an Informatics major. Thank you for all you’ve done to help create, shape, and foster the iSchool and its community. I wish you the best in your retirement!
Cheers,
Blake
From Blake Levy(December 3rd, 2014 12:55 am)
Thanks for seeing what needed to be done.
From Rebecca Teeters(December 3rd, 2014 1:17 am)
As a M.Librarianship grad in ’76, I am proudly watched the transformation of the program through the years. Happy retirement!
From Alice Shands(December 3rd, 2014 1:20 am)
Congratulations! I’m glad to have attended the ischool during your tenure and have proudly followed your research since.
Rachel Howard
2006 cohort
From Rachel Howard(December 3rd, 2014 1:46 am)
Professor Eisenberg,
It was a pleasure having you as my professor in my first Informatics class. Thank you for being a part of fostering the collaborative and supportive culture of the iSchool community. I’m sure we’ll meet again in the near future. Congrats on your retirement!
Christina Nghiem
From Christina Nghiem(December 3rd, 2014 1:50 am)
Professor E,
It was an absolute pleasure having you as a professor. Thank you very much for introducing me to and teaching me Informatics which has made a lasting impact on my life.
Congratulations on your retirement. You deserve it after so many good years dedicated to the iSchool. You will be missed, but remember your words, “The iSchool is MY school”, so definitely check back in from time to time!
Cheers,
Neeraja
From Neeraja Duriseti(December 3rd, 2014 3:22 am)
Mike,
As a product of the “old” GSLIS, I salute your vision and leadership in building THE Information School. It was a privilege to work with you from the early stages to the fully realized school we are today. Thank you for your tireless devotion to the school, and I look to you to be a role model in retirement as well!
Nancy
From Nancy Gershenfeld(December 3rd, 2014 3:28 am)
Congratulations, Mike! Thank you for establishing the iSchool. It gave me an awesome education and the chance to work with a lot of phenomenal people (and better yet, it led to a great job). All the best.
-Julie Tanaka
From Julie Tanaka(December 3rd, 2014 3:42 am)
Mike,
Congratulations on an incredible career. You’ve been and continue to be a great inspiration, mentor, colleague, provocateur, musician, teacher, storyteller, and Santa. Oh, and I left out “friend,” but that, above all.
Thanks for everything, boss.
Trent
From Trent Hill(December 3rd, 2014 3:46 am)
Congratulations on your retirement and thanks for all you’ve done to make the iSchool what it is!
From Ann Pool(December 3rd, 2014 4:23 am)
Mike,
The iSchool will always hold a special place in my heart, due in no small part to your leadership. It’s amazing to see how much the school has grown from its humble beginnings.
Wishing you all the best in the next chapter of your life.
Cheers,
Joe
Informatics ’02
From Joe Goldberg(December 3rd, 2014 4:36 am)
Mike, I was part of the Seattle School District librarians and iSchool initiative back in the day with Bryce Nelson. That was a great partnership that brought all of us into the 21st century. Thanks for all your contributions to the field — life long learning is the name of the game: keep moving and growing as you continue your journey!
Janet
Garfield High School Library
From Janet Woodward(December 3rd, 2014 5:01 am)
Hello Mike,
I graduated from the UW School of Librarianship in ’71 and never had the privilege of meeting you, but I want to thank you for taking the iSchool to new heights during your tenure. Your vision, energy, and leadership during this time of profound change for libraries have helped all of us in the profession, as well as those just entering, to contribute to redefining the library in today’s world.
From Jackie Spurlock(December 3rd, 2014 5:06 am)
Dear Mike,
You were the right person at the right time for all the right reasons. Your vision, leadership, passion and never-ending energy on behalf of my beloved UW leaves a huge set of shoes to fill.
Enjoy every minute of your next adventure.
All the best,
Rivkah Sass, ’78
From Rivkah Sass(December 3rd, 2014 6:11 am)
Mike!
You’ve shown me new path for me to walk.
Thank you very much for everything you’ve done for us.
I hope for the best for you.
Thank you and best wishes to you.
From Kwangjin Bae(December 3rd, 2014 6:54 am)
Thank you so much for the wonderful changes and growth you have inspired in the iSchool.
Your retirement is well deserved!
Heather (class of 1999)
From Heather Pretty(December 3rd, 2014 12:21 pm)
Mike,
I was there when you arrived in ’98. Life is funny sometimes when people cross paths again. So I’ll be there to wish you well at your retirement party.
Take care.
Peace in Information,
Betty Lowe
MLIS, UW’99
From Betty Lowe(December 3rd, 2014 12:56 pm)
Mike!
I hope you have an amazing retirement Mike. Filled with family, fun and fulfillment.
Thanks for teaching me how to teach. I find that I try to emulate your in class presence every day. AND IT WORKS.
Thanks for nudging me towards Syracuse too. This is a great place. I think this is going to be great, long lasting fit and Arlene and I just thrilled to be here.
Be well Mike,
Jeff Hemsley
From Jeff Hemsley(December 3rd, 2014 2:29 pm)
Mike,
Your vision, energy and drive helped create a truly rich information school. Well done.
You deserve a round of applause and time to turn your laser gaze to whatever sparks your fire.
My best to you, and thank you.
Kate
From Kate McDill(December 3rd, 2014 3:05 pm)
Mike,
Thanks for all you have done for me, the school, the iSchool movement, and information science. Yours is a true legacy. Congrats and good luck on this next rewarding phase!
Joe
From Joseph T. Tennis(December 3rd, 2014 4:02 pm)
Hi Mike,
We are all very inspired by your vision and enthusiasm, you are the encouragement for us to continue great work, to contribute to our society.
All the best to your new chapter!
Cheers! and Thank you!
From
Jing Dai
From Jing Dai(December 3rd, 2014 4:41 pm)
Mike,
I’ve been a librarian for 35 years, working in/with a variety of types of libraries (public, State, institutional, and academic). You are my Library hero and the epitome of “connecting people to information”. Thanks for all you’ve done for practitioners and customers in LibraryLand.
Best wishes on your well-deserved retirement.
Debbie Crumb
Renton Technical College Library
From Debbie Crumb(December 3rd, 2014 4:56 pm)
Mike,
I remember way back when…. you came to your first WLMA Conference. It was in Yakima and if I remember correctly you stood on a table (maybe it was a chair) to give us a message of support, hope and “we can do it” positive thinking.
Thanks for being a great supporter of school libraries.
Kathy
From Kathy Kugler(December 3rd, 2014 6:31 pm)
Dear Mike,
Thank you for believing and ensuring that the UW iSchool included Native thought. With your support, we have a voice. You will be missed.
From Juan-Carlos Chavez(December 3rd, 2014 7:08 pm)
Mike,
Thank you so much for your contributions to the iSchool and for teaching info 200. It is your teaching in that class that got me where I am today.
Thanks again!
From Evelyn Carlson(December 3rd, 2014 7:10 pm)
“Now somewhere in the Black Mountain Hills of Dakota
There lived a young boy named Rocky Raccoon,
And one day his woman ran off with another guy,
Hit young Rocky in the eye.
Rocky didn’t like that
He said, “I’m gonna get that boy”.
So one day he walked into town
Booked himself a room in the local saloon.”
Thank you for everything.
From Carlos(December 3rd, 2014 7:46 pm)
Mike,
You changed more than the university of Washington’s concept of information and librarianship. You changed everyone’s vision of the transformative power of information access. Gail Dykstra
From Gail Dykstra(December 3rd, 2014 8:51 pm)
Thank you for always being ready to lend an ear, ask hard questions, and guide us in the right direction!
The energy you injected into our field of study was contagious.
I hope to continue to be challenged and infected by your endless curiousity, that you periodically prod us on from your so-called “retirement” perch. I don’t know that we can let you slip away so easily…
Lots Of Love And Blessings To You And Your Loved Ones!
Que Viva!! ;P
From Mario Sanchez(December 3rd, 2014 9:22 pm)
Mike,
You have been a game changer for the field. Many of us wouldn’t be part of this work without you and your leadership at the Ischool.
A heart felt thank you and congratulations!
Brian Bannon
From Brian Bannon(December 3rd, 2014 9:38 pm)
When I transferred with my company to Seattle in 1999, I was looking to further my education. I looked around at several schools in the area. I happened on the iSchool before it was the iSchool and Terry Brooks told me about this new program in this new Information School that the incoming Dean was creating soon – an MS in Information Management. It sounded like just what I was looking for. I’m proud to have been in the first cohort of the Evening MSIM program and help you shape that program over 10 years ago, Mike.
Because of the work you did to create the iSchool and the MSIM program, I get to work every day using the ideas and concepts that I learned there.
Thank you, Mike and Good Luck!
Andy Everett
MSIM 2003
Metadata Librarian/Taxonomist
Washington State DOT
From Andy Everett(December 3rd, 2014 11:41 pm)
Mike, not only did you change the face of education in the information field, you opened the door for me to be a part of that– many thanks to you for all you have done for all of us. You’re a lasting inspiration for everyone, and I know that you’ll be equally amazing in your retirement. Enjoy!!
From Mike Crandall(December 4th, 2014 12:05 am)
Mike,
It has been a huge honor to work with you at the iSchool. I will miss your energy, your can-do attitude, your fearlessness, your quick wit and your quick mind. You are a true visionary. A legendary figure. Plus you know every Springsteen and Beatles lyric ever written.
From Michele Norris(December 4th, 2014 12:05 am)
Mike,
Thank you for everything you have done for the iSchool. Even for those of us who never had a chance to meet you, your impact is known and greatly appreciated.
Best of luck on your retirement endeavors!
From Peter Ellis(December 4th, 2014 4:03 am)
Mike, thanks so much for your contribution to the iSchool. I was just telling my wife this afternoon how much I appreciate the people at the iSchool and you have encapsulated so many of the positive attributes here. So helpful, smart, caring, fun. You’ve been a wonderful example to many here.
thanks!
From Tim Carlson(December 4th, 2014 4:51 am)
Congratulations, Mike! It was a privilege to be a member of the first dMLIS cohort. The program radically changed my professional life. I am deeply grateful you pushed to create it. It took your influence far beyond the Puget Sound, & that’s a great thing!
My favorite Eisenbergism is “metadata.” You taught it the first day – long before Snowden, the NSA & the media made it a catch phrase.
Best wishes in your next endeavors. I’m certain they will be rewarding.
Cheers!
Dorothy Harris
dMLIS 2005
From Dorothy Harris(December 4th, 2014 6:27 am)
Mike,
You were a cheerleader and resource who was invaluable during the effort to reinstate teacher librarians into Bellevue secondary schools. It took five years, but the effort led to positive and promising changes that reflected your vision of the importance of teacher librarians in the 21st century. I know that you have supported many advocates over the years and you are truly a champion for students of all ages.
In gratitude and with best wishes for a well-deserved and richly rewarding retirement,
Jeani Littrell-Kwik
MLS 1992
From Jeani Littrell-Kwik(December 4th, 2014 11:03 am)
2
From Benjamin Davis(December 4th, 2014 7:54 pm)
Mike’s a big baseball guy. He loves his team(s). So much so he taught a baseball course at the iSchool. He’s the biggest hitter school libraries, and libraries in general, have ever, ever had. He put lipstick to information management, informatics and librarianship. He’s been described as the best kind of Superman-bulldog to have in your corner. For all of you who’ve had him in your corner, we are lucky folk.
I wish you and Carol the best retirement one could ask for, knowing your legacy, together, will continue to impact thousands and thousands more.
All my best,
Deborah Gallaher UW-MLIS 2004
Nathan Hale High School Library, Seattle, WA
From Deborah Gallaher(December 4th, 2014 8:11 pm)
Mike,
Having had the privilege of being a beneficiary your work with Seattle Schools, and the Big 6, you really helped clarify for me what being a teacher librarian could be. In fact, I still use one of your quotes as my email signature.
“.. the library is everywhere,
not just in that room with books
and shelves and computers and tables
Mike Eisenberg
May you have a long and interesting retirement.
Mindy T
From Mindy Terr(December 4th, 2014 8:30 pm)
Hello Mike,
While many know you as “the Godfather of the iSchool” & the Founding Father of the Big6, I will never forget your willingness to advocate for school teacher-librarians. When Federal Way cut their FT School Librarians, you traveled down I-5 to meet with them in the local KCLS Branch. When the BSD405 School Board lost their minds & cut Secondary School Librarians, you hosted a strategy session in an iSchool conference room. You never stopped preaching (eloquently & loudly) that all students deserve not only high quality access to information – but quality professionals that can help teach them how to be “effective users of information.” For that I will always be eternally grateful.
Best of luck in the future, and know that in my library, and in countless others;the teaching of Critical Thinking around Information Literacy is a shared vision that you have helped create.
Gratefully,
David Nelson
Aki Kurose Library
From David Nelson(December 4th, 2014 8:32 pm)
In 2009, when I was an elementary TL in the Bellevue School District, BSD announced that it would be reassigning all secondary librarians to classroom teaching positions the following school year. A group of us met with Mike to see what he thought the best course of action was for preventing this from happening. He dove in head first to fight for the cause of Bellevue students having a quality library program in every school. He wrote letters, met with school board members, and along with a couple hundred other people, attended school board meetings where he made impassioned pleas to support our libraries. While the board did not change course that year, Mike continued to work behind the scenes to advocate for reinstating highly qualified staff in our libraries. It is due in part to his advocacy that Bellevue reversed course last year and started staffing its libraries with certificated staff once again. I am grateful that he was our “Superman-bulldog” in Bellevue! Happy retirement, Mike!
Kristine
Kristine McLane
Librarian/Technology Teacher
North Beach Elementary School
From Kristine McLane(December 4th, 2014 8:46 pm)
Mike,
Congratulations on the next chapter of your life…Retirment! You deserve a nice long break from so much work and accomplishments you have done for the iSchool community and the UW community. You’re an iSchool legendary 🙂 I was very lucky to be at iSchool under your leadership.
Best wishes,
Ammy Phuwanartnurak
From Ammy(December 4th, 2014 10:17 pm)
What a lucky day for UW in 1998 when you agreed to come west and take over the leadership role for the library and information school. I remember hearing about your conditions: new space, new undergraduate program, another masters program and a PHD program. Thankfully, Provost Huntsman agreed and the ischool is now among with leading schools in the country. You leave an incredible legacy. I have always admired your ability to create enthusiasm and a sense of urgency for what we do. You are the master translator — helping others see the importance and the relevance of library and information science. From UWired to ATAC, you have been a wonderful colleague and am honored to have worked with you. My best to you and Carol in this next phase. I know that you’ll bring the same energy and creativity to whatever you’re doing.
Jill McKinstry
Librarian Emeritus
From Jill McKinstry(December 4th, 2014 11:24 pm)
Mike, I will never forget you standing on a table and shouting to motivate the Seattle Public Schools Librarians during the time you were providing some professional development. I am still turning in a monthly memo to my admins and it’s been a huge help in communicating what libraries can be and do. Thank you so much.
Chris Gustafson
Whitman Middle School
From Chris Gustafson(December 4th, 2014 11:31 pm)
Mike — As a UW staff person attending the MLIS program part-time, I came close to dropping out of library school. Then the buzz started about your arrival, and I heard you give a speech for the first group of incoming MLIS students under your watch. I was inspired by your energy and plans, returning to the program after being on leave. I finally finished my MLIS in 2002, and I’m so happy that I did.
Thank you, and enjoy your retirement!
Jeanette Mills
Director of Visual Services
UW School of Art + Art History + Design
From Jeanette Mills(December 4th, 2014 11:45 pm)
Dear Mike — Thank you for taking us from dingy backrooms to well-appointed campus digs, from limping along to growing and thriving. Your enthusiasm, drive and vision rescued me from a grad school path that wasn’t quite right and drew me into librarianship and “home”. You will always be one of my greatest professional and personal heroes. All best wishes on your retirement. I know you will keep it rockin’!
Lisa Spagnolo, Bass
UC Davis
UW MLIS ’01
From Lisa Spagnolo(December 5th, 2014 12:04 am)
Mike,
Wishing you the very best in your retirement!
I participated in the Seattle School District/UW “Rapid Library Transformation Initiative” and later I was involved in the UW iSchool study on delivering library services to high schools with small learning communities. Because of your inspiring leadership and infectious enthusiasm, both experiences continue to have a profound impact on how I carry out my role as teacher-librarian and deliver library services to my school community. I am forever grateful to you and for these opportunities.
Thank you!
Debbie Arthur,
Teacher Librarian
Ballard High School
From Debbie Arthur(December 5th, 2014 12:22 am)
Thank you for your leadership. I was impressed with your presence and words at Washington Library Media Association conferences.
I’m sure your retirement will not be one of lounging on a beach somewhere. Your influence will continue.
Robert Fletcher, UW MLS 1969
From Robert A. Fletcher(December 5th, 2014 4:30 pm)
Hello Professor E,
I remember taking INFO 300 from you back in 2008, and how mesmerized the class was by your enthusiasm, knowledge and natural charm. Thank you for all the support and advices you have given to me during my undergraduate (and graduate!) career. Thank you for opening so many doors for so many people by establishing and growing the UW iSchool. Wishing you a wonderful journey post-retirement!
Sincerely,
Sarah W
From Sarah W(December 6th, 2014 3:35 am)
Mike,
They used to say “what the heck is an Information School?” Because of your passion, your humor, and your dogged pursuit of excellence–now they know. You did this!
All my thanks and all my best.
From Chance Hunt(December 6th, 2014 4:48 am)
“So long and thanks for all the fish!”
Alison McGuire MLIS, LMP
class of 2001
From Alison (Butler) McGuire(December 6th, 2014 5:58 am)
Mike,
Thank you for your work to make the iSchool the wonderful place for students that it is, such a wonderful place to receive knowledge! Thank you personally for supporting me, I couln’t have done it without you!
All the best to you in your future plans!
From Anna Stolyar(December 6th, 2014 10:16 pm)
Congratulations upon your retirement, Mike. It took me a long time, but I finally got used to saying “I-School.” Your vision has been achieved; you can be proud and satisfied.
Linda Gould
Librarian Emerita
UW Libraries,
Class of 1970
From Linda Gould(December 7th, 2014 3:12 am)
Mike –
Congratulations on your retirement and endless thanks for your intellectual prowess, academic talent, contagious enthusiasm and all-around creative chutzpah in spearheading the transformation of the UW Library School (as it was when I started in 1972) into THE cutting-edge world leader in information education, application, research, innovation and a plethora of other i-components.
Best wishes to you and Carol for whatever the next chapter brings!
Fondly,
Marcie
From Marcie Stone(December 7th, 2014 10:36 pm)
Thank you for school library advocacy (& other advocacy, I just know that side best)! You’re a master promoter and world visionary. We’re so glad you came and stayed so long!
Sue Weiss
From Sue Weiss(December 7th, 2014 10:51 pm)
Mike, what a career!
Congratulations are thank you for all you’ve done for me personally, professionally… disciplinary. Your legacy is tremendous. Not sure any brief comment can convey my wishes for your transition into all that’s next. But, here’s a try with the help of a prayer from the Ojibiwa Nation: “May you be strengthened by yesterday’s rain, walk straight in tomorrow’s wind, and cherish each moment of the sun today.”
The highest and best, Mike. You deserve and have earned it.
Deborah
Assistant Professor,
Drexel University
From Deborah Turner, Class of 2009(December 7th, 2014 11:55 pm)
Thank you for all the work you did to build up the iSchoool.
As a recent grad, I didn’t realize how exceptional the UW iSchool was until after I had graduated.
From Molly Higgins(December 8th, 2014 2:15 pm)
Mike,
It was a pleasure knowing and learning from you–thank you so much for the leadership and spirit you gave to the iSchool. All the best to you in your next chapter.
Paula
MSIM 2004
From Paula Land(December 8th, 2014 10:12 pm)
Dear Mike,
Congratulations on your retirement and on a significant, influential, and very far-reaching international career!
Reflecting over the years that I have known you, those years when I worked in school library administration, taught for you at the iSchool, and have been advocating for school library programs as a retiree, using strategies developed by you, I cannot think of anyone who has impacted our profession more than you. Yes, your influence has affected all aspects of the library and information fields, but, perhaps, in no field more than school libraries.
I wish you and Carol well, with lots of family activities and new adventures. I hope that you and Carol will come to visit us and I’ll close with the first question I asked you long ago, if you come to Utah, would you rather ski or go on a river raft trip?
Love from Larry and me,
Sharyl
From Sharyl Smith(December 9th, 2014 4:41 am)
Mike,
When I started at SU in IST (88′), it was just SU and UCLA with an undergrad offering. I still recall the first meeting with you, Prof. Bonzi, and Prof. Nilan. You all were so excited about your field it was contagious. I’ve always tried to use the tools I took from IST in my career.
As an advisor you were the best. When I took my leave of absence you took the time to write and offer advise, even if I wasn’t able to return you wanted me to finish my education. When I was able to return you continued advising me to stay technical and stay cutting edge.
Since graduation, you’ve been a great friend and mentor. I’ve contacted you for advise on job changes, starting companies, teaching options. We also just converse about sports and music. Whatever it is you always respond with great advise and opinions.
Good luck in retirement. I’ll still be emailing about SU sports or the Seahawks!!
Kind regards,
Ed Matthews
From Ed Matthews(December 12th, 2014 7:29 pm)
Congratulations on wrapping up an amazing career at the UW! Your enthusiasm and vision for the iSchool resonated with me as one who graduated under earlier ‘classic librarian’ curricula at a time when librarianship was beginning to change.
The revitalization and expansion of the iSchool program addressed many of the changes in the technology people use and the way in which we now access and use information. It made the iSchool’s programs relevant to a new generation.
As you segue to what comes next on your post-career ‘see & do list’, may you find much that is stimulating and satisfying.
Shiela Osheroff ’69
From Shiela Keil Osheroff(December 13th, 2014 8:22 pm)
Dear Mike,
As an iSchool graduate, I’m one of many who have benefited from your leadership of this great program. Many thanks and best wishes for a rewarding retirement.
Leslie Good
2nd cohort
Distance program
MLIS 2006
From Leslie Good(December 15th, 2014 3:45 am)
Mike,
Thank you for the wonderful insights you’ve provided in the classroom and beyond. Your achievements are something to make example of. Hope you enjoy your well deserved rest.
Ilya
MSIM Class of 2012
From Ilya Krivulin(December 15th, 2014 5:44 pm)
It was a pleasure and honor to work with you to strengthen the bonds between the ISchool and the Washington Library Association. They are both stronger because of it.
Enjoy your next chapter.
With best wishes,
Carol Schuyler
From Carol Schuyler(December 16th, 2014 10:22 pm)
I remember our first day as (the inaugural) dMLIS cohort and you were talking to us about librarianship and what it meant in the world and in our communities. You had such passion (didn’t you jump onto a table?) and were so compelling, I remember biting my lip and silently chanting to myself, “Don’t cry, don’t cry!” It was such a great moment and will stay with me always: I had found my place, my people and my life’s work.
Thank you for making it happen, for me and countless others, your passion is contagious!
Have a great time in retirement – it’s all true – you deserve the very best!
Barb Eales – Ventura County Web Librarian
From Barbara Eales(December 16th, 2014 11:54 pm)
Mike,
I so appreciate our discussions on learning and instruction in the library. I am working at an academic library and there isn’t a day where I do not put what I learned from you into practice!
Enjoy your retirement and know that you positively influenced unknown numbers of lives and will continue to do so for many, many years to come.
Yours,
Bridget Nowlin, MA + MLIS
Visual Arts Librarian
Cornish College of the Arts
From Bridget Nowlin(December 18th, 2014 2:39 am)
Dear Mike,
Thank you for your inspiration, both personally and for our profession. Your energy and enthusiasm has been a beacon for many of us and will continue to guide us as we move forward and change the world. I hope you enjoy a well-deserved retirement!
Sarah
From Sarah Evans(December 31st, 2014 7:08 pm)
Mike,
Congratulations & thank you for all you have done for the iSchool. You made a difference!
Jeannette
From Jeannette Privat(January 25th, 2015 3:33 am)
Congratulations on a well earned retirement. More time for the family, for the Camp and for the Mets!
Mike,
You have been a pioneer, a visionary, a great friend to UW Educational Outreach and a questionable harmonica player.
You deserve the best of everything in your retirement!
Be well,
Clark
FromClark Westmoreland(October 17th, 2014 11:06 pm)
From all of us in the School of Information Studies at Charles Sturt University, Australia, all the very best in your retirement, Mike, and thanks again for the contribution you made towards our School’s program of curriculum and research renewal, which ultimately led to us joining the iSchool family!
Thanks
Philip
Assoc Prof Philip Hider
FromHead, School of Information Studies
Boorooma Street
Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678
Australia
Tel: +61 2 6933 2522
Fax: +61 2 6933 2733
Email: phider@csu.edu.au
http://www.csu.edu.au
Philip Hider(October 27th, 2014 3:13 pm)
Mike,
Wow! What a legacy. You’ve touched so many and accomplished so much with your boundless energy, enthusiasm, passion and genius. Really, you can retire? Really? Perhaps there’s a next act for you to continue to make an indelible difference.
All the best I your next chapter. Thank you so much for making such a difference to me and countless others. You’re the best!
Melody Ivory
FromMelody ivory(November 7th, 2014 8:33 am)
Mike,
Wow! What a legacy. You’ve touched so many and accomplished so much with your boundless energy, enthusiasm, passion and genius. Really, you can retire? Really? Perhaps there’s a next act for you to continue to make an indelible difference.
All the best I your next chapter. Thank you so much for making such a difference to me and countless others. You’re the best!
Melody Ivory
FromMelody ivory(November 7th, 2014 8:33 am)
Mike-
It’s been 8 years since I left the iSchool but I still operate with the “we can do this!” attitude that I loved about the iSchool; an attitude that started with your enthusiasm.
Thanks for setting such a high standard for how I operate in my everyday life.
Best,
FromLindsay Boswell
(former Student Services staff member)
Lindsay Boswell(November 11th, 2014 6:20 am)
Mike, You have been a mentor, friend, campaign supporter and inspiration. You gave me the early opportunity to teach and to work with you on the YA Author events. You always offered new and innovative ways to reach youth and adults that shaped the future of libraries. I have learned so much from you and it has been a true privilege work with you on more recent projects.
FromI wish you great happiness and more free time with family and friends. I hope that I can truly celebrate with you in the near future. Fondly, Sari Feldman
Sari Feldman(November 18th, 2014 8:32 pm)
Mike- congratulations on an amazing career, and for connecting with so many people, for so long, on such a profound level.
FromLove,
Kim
Kim Mills(November 20th, 2014 5:35 pm)
Mike,
I was lucky to meet you when I did — you have been a great mentor and helped me understand how much fun it is to connect people with information. Thanks for every opportunity you’ve given me and all the love that you and Carol have shown me over the years. I wish you a very happy retirement, and I hope our paths connect again soon.
Love,
Carrie
FromCarrie (Lowe) McGuire(November 22nd, 2014 11:50 am)
Mike – From one SUNY Albany alum to another with lots of love for Syracuse University as well, you have made such a difference at UW and in our field. I am proud to be your colleague and friend. Best to you and Carol and your family in the future.
Best wishes
Susan Hildreth,
FromIMLS Director
Susan Hildreth(November 23rd, 2014 10:22 pm)
I graduated from UW with my MLS before the iSchool. In fact, it was close to the end for library graduate studies there, but you helped to save the program! Thanks for your vision, persistence, courage, and passion. Enjoy your retirement!
FromLiz Gilbert(December 2nd, 2014 10:24 pm)
Thanks for everything Mike! You’ve been a great inspiration for the program
FromTanner Means(December 2nd, 2014 10:25 pm)
Mike,
Thanks for your lasting contributions to the iSchool movement. You will be missed!
Best,
Bryan Dosono
Fromhttp://www.bdosono.com/
Bryan Dosono(December 2nd, 2014 10:25 pm)
Mike, Thank you for your vision and leadership over the years.
FromI hope you enjoy your retirement. You will be missed!
Anne Turner
ISchool Class of 2001
Anne Turner(December 2nd, 2014 10:31 pm)
Thank you for everything Mike! You have been an amazing teacher and inspiration to so many of us.
FromDania Tanzil(December 2nd, 2014 10:35 pm)
Mike,
Congratulations and best wishes for a fantastic retirement. Thanks for all of your service to the iSchool. Because of your leadership, I had the pleasure and honor of the best academic experience of my life.
Tim Merrick
FromMLIS, 2008
Boise, ID
Tim Merrick(December 2nd, 2014 10:35 pm)
Mike, I attended the school in the late 1970s, and it was a good school. I’m thrilled by where you’ve taken it, and was so glad that Sherry Fuller led the team that made it possible. I’m impressed with your current graduates. Congratulations!
FromBob Pringle(December 2nd, 2014 10:36 pm)
Dear Mike,
Congratulations on your upcoming retirement from the UW iSchool!
Best wishes,
FromAmanda Hornby
iSchool alumn
UW Librarian
Odegaard Library
Amanda Hornby(December 2nd, 2014 10:40 pm)
Hi Mike,
Congratulations on your well-earned retirement. It was a real pleasure to get know you a bit and to study under you!
Thanks for what you’ve done for me, the iSchool as a whole and the discipline!
Mark
FromMark Squire(December 2nd, 2014 10:41 pm)
Mike, best of luck for a long and interesting retirement. Thanks for all of the work you’ve done at and for the iSchool. You made a huge impact there and also in the field of library instruction.
FromSara Ranger(December 2nd, 2014 10:43 pm)
Thank you for the BIG 6! If only that had been available in 1955 for the first year I taught Jr. High students and for my library students in 1969. Signed, Sylvia Haven; a grateful UW Library School 1969 grad.
Fromsbhaven(December 2nd, 2014 10:48 pm)
Mike:
I’m so glad I got to take Info Literacy with you, who else would let us back-channel in class in 2007? and the Big 6!
You made the iSchool what it is today, and I thank you for it. Under your tutelage, the world is a more information literate place, and the Huskies have gained a great fan as well!
Congrats, and try to relax!
Elizabeth
FromElizabeth GOuld(December 2nd, 2014 11:00 pm)
You really started something big when you brought the I-school idea to the UW.
FromKim Emmons(December 2nd, 2014 11:04 pm)
Mike:
I want to thank you so much for the work you did and still do for the iSchool. Being a student back in 1998, when it was unclear what was going to happen to the school, having you come in and make it what it is now has been a pleasure to watch and be a part of.
Thank you so much.
-Sean McCain
FromSean McCAin(December 2nd, 2014 11:06 pm)
Mike,
You have been such a positive FORCE in the library and information industry–a real powerhouse. I’ve always been impressed with how fast you pick up ideas and how many weighty projects you are working on at once.
You were and are fabulous asset to the profession!
Cindy Romaine
FromSLA President 2011
Cindy Romaine(December 2nd, 2014 11:09 pm)
Best wishes in your retirement. I had a wonderful time in my career as a librarian: school (K-12), Robert College in Istanbul, did some post grad at Cal’s Inf Studies, did some programming at UC, then automated UCSF library, Hayward Public Library, worked at Boalt Law Library, finally SF Law Library. UW’s program was my foundation. Thanks! It was a great career for me. I think you’ll have a great retirement. Mine is. : )
FromCheryl Armstrong (was Banister)(December 2nd, 2014 11:21 pm)
Mike,
Congratulations and thank you for your tireless work on information literacy issues throughout your career!
Enjoy your new, relaxing life!
Leslie Hurst
FromiSchool Alumn, 2003
Head of Teaching & Learning
UW Bothell/Cascadia Library
Leslie Hurst(December 2nd, 2014 11:22 pm)
Congratulations and best wishes on your retirement, Mike! You inspired so many of us with your forward-looking, can-do vision for the iSchool. Even those of us who weren’t there when you purportedly jumped on the table at your first UW faculty meeting felt the reverberations of that energy—and hopefully will continue to feel it for many years! All the best.
Jon Haupt
FromiSchool MLIS (2003)
Wine Librarian
Sonoma County Wine Library
Jon Haupt(December 2nd, 2014 11:32 pm)
It has been a joy and a privilege to work with and share ideas with Mike over the years. His passion ignites passion in those around him and shines a brilliant light in our profession. You will be sorely missed, but I know the next journey will be wonderful for you and your family!
With my respect and love,
Jerene
Jerene Battisti
FromKing County System
Teen Services Coordinator
Jerene Battisti(December 2nd, 2014 11:37 pm)
Mike,
FromMany thanks for all you have done to create such a brilliant program. You have forever changed the landscape of information science, not only putting the UW iSchool on the map, but improving the lives of so many around the world with a vision and dedication second to none. You are appreciated and you will be missed.
Mike
MLIS 2005
Mike Doane(December 3rd, 2014 12:07 am)
Mike,
From the moment you arrived at UW in 1998, it was clear you were a force of nature. I was lucky enough to be co-president of the alumni group then, and was privileged to see your vision for transforming the Library School to the iSchool take place. Having graduated in 1997, I wished you could have arrived a few years earlier. Now I can’t believe they’re letting you get away – even for retirement.
Best wishes in all you do,
Elena
FromElena Bianco(December 3rd, 2014 12:50 am)
Mike,
Your wisdom and enthusiasm regarding information, technology, and their shared potential heavily influenced my decision to become an Informatics major. Thank you for all you’ve done to help create, shape, and foster the iSchool and its community. I wish you the best in your retirement!
Cheers,
FromBlake
Blake Levy(December 3rd, 2014 12:55 am)
Thanks for seeing what needed to be done.
FromRebecca Teeters(December 3rd, 2014 1:17 am)
As a M.Librarianship grad in ’76, I am proudly watched the transformation of the program through the years. Happy retirement!
FromAlice Shands(December 3rd, 2014 1:20 am)
Congratulations! I’m glad to have attended the ischool during your tenure and have proudly followed your research since.
Rachel Howard
From2006 cohort
Rachel Howard(December 3rd, 2014 1:46 am)
Professor Eisenberg,
It was a pleasure having you as my professor in my first Informatics class. Thank you for being a part of fostering the collaborative and supportive culture of the iSchool community. I’m sure we’ll meet again in the near future. Congrats on your retirement!
Christina Nghiem
FromChristina Nghiem(December 3rd, 2014 1:50 am)
Professor E,
It was an absolute pleasure having you as a professor. Thank you very much for introducing me to and teaching me Informatics which has made a lasting impact on my life.
Congratulations on your retirement. You deserve it after so many good years dedicated to the iSchool. You will be missed, but remember your words, “The iSchool is MY school”, so definitely check back in from time to time!
Cheers,
FromNeeraja
Neeraja Duriseti(December 3rd, 2014 3:22 am)
Mike,
As a product of the “old” GSLIS, I salute your vision and leadership in building THE Information School. It was a privilege to work with you from the early stages to the fully realized school we are today. Thank you for your tireless devotion to the school, and I look to you to be a role model in retirement as well!
Nancy
FromNancy Gershenfeld(December 3rd, 2014 3:28 am)
Congratulations, Mike! Thank you for establishing the iSchool. It gave me an awesome education and the chance to work with a lot of phenomenal people (and better yet, it led to a great job). All the best.
From-Julie Tanaka
Julie Tanaka(December 3rd, 2014 3:42 am)
Mike,
Congratulations on an incredible career. You’ve been and continue to be a great inspiration, mentor, colleague, provocateur, musician, teacher, storyteller, and Santa. Oh, and I left out “friend,” but that, above all.
Thanks for everything, boss.
Trent
FromTrent Hill(December 3rd, 2014 3:46 am)
Congratulations on your retirement and thanks for all you’ve done to make the iSchool what it is!
FromAnn Pool(December 3rd, 2014 4:23 am)
Mike,
The iSchool will always hold a special place in my heart, due in no small part to your leadership. It’s amazing to see how much the school has grown from its humble beginnings.
Wishing you all the best in the next chapter of your life.
Cheers,
FromJoe
Informatics ’02
Joe Goldberg(December 3rd, 2014 4:36 am)
Mike, I was part of the Seattle School District librarians and iSchool initiative back in the day with Bryce Nelson. That was a great partnership that brought all of us into the 21st century. Thanks for all your contributions to the field — life long learning is the name of the game: keep moving and growing as you continue your journey!
FromJanet
Garfield High School Library
Janet Woodward(December 3rd, 2014 5:01 am)
Hello Mike,
FromI graduated from the UW School of Librarianship in ’71 and never had the privilege of meeting you, but I want to thank you for taking the iSchool to new heights during your tenure. Your vision, energy, and leadership during this time of profound change for libraries have helped all of us in the profession, as well as those just entering, to contribute to redefining the library in today’s world.
Jackie Spurlock(December 3rd, 2014 5:06 am)
Dear Mike,
You were the right person at the right time for all the right reasons. Your vision, leadership, passion and never-ending energy on behalf of my beloved UW leaves a huge set of shoes to fill.
Enjoy every minute of your next adventure.
All the best,
Rivkah Sass, ’78
FromRivkah Sass(December 3rd, 2014 6:11 am)
Mike!
You’ve shown me new path for me to walk.
Thank you very much for everything you’ve done for us.
I hope for the best for you.
Thank you and best wishes to you.
FromKwangjin Bae(December 3rd, 2014 6:54 am)
Thank you so much for the wonderful changes and growth you have inspired in the iSchool.
Your retirement is well deserved!
Heather (class of 1999)
FromHeather Pretty(December 3rd, 2014 12:21 pm)
Mike,
I was there when you arrived in ’98. Life is funny sometimes when people cross paths again. So I’ll be there to wish you well at your retirement party.
Take care.
Peace in Information,
Betty Lowe
FromMLIS, UW’99
Betty Lowe(December 3rd, 2014 12:56 pm)
Mike!
I hope you have an amazing retirement Mike. Filled with family, fun and fulfillment.
Thanks for teaching me how to teach. I find that I try to emulate your in class presence every day. AND IT WORKS.
Thanks for nudging me towards Syracuse too. This is a great place. I think this is going to be great, long lasting fit and Arlene and I just thrilled to be here.
Be well Mike,
FromJeff Hemsley
Jeff Hemsley(December 3rd, 2014 2:29 pm)
Mike,
Your vision, energy and drive helped create a truly rich information school. Well done.
You deserve a round of applause and time to turn your laser gaze to whatever sparks your fire.
My best to you, and thank you.
Kate
FromKate McDill(December 3rd, 2014 3:05 pm)
Mike,
Thanks for all you have done for me, the school, the iSchool movement, and information science. Yours is a true legacy. Congrats and good luck on this next rewarding phase!
FromJoe
Joseph T. Tennis(December 3rd, 2014 4:02 pm)
Hi Mike,
We are all very inspired by your vision and enthusiasm, you are the encouragement for us to continue great work, to contribute to our society.
All the best to your new chapter!
Cheers! and Thank you!
From
Jing Dai
FromJing Dai(December 3rd, 2014 4:41 pm)
Mike,
I’ve been a librarian for 35 years, working in/with a variety of types of libraries (public, State, institutional, and academic). You are my Library hero and the epitome of “connecting people to information”. Thanks for all you’ve done for practitioners and customers in LibraryLand.
Best wishes on your well-deserved retirement.
Debbie Crumb
FromRenton Technical College Library
Debbie Crumb(December 3rd, 2014 4:56 pm)
Mike,
FromI remember way back when…. you came to your first WLMA Conference. It was in Yakima and if I remember correctly you stood on a table (maybe it was a chair) to give us a message of support, hope and “we can do it” positive thinking.
Thanks for being a great supporter of school libraries.
Kathy
Kathy Kugler(December 3rd, 2014 6:31 pm)
Dear Mike,
Thank you for believing and ensuring that the UW iSchool included Native thought. With your support, we have a voice. You will be missed.
FromJuan-Carlos Chavez(December 3rd, 2014 7:08 pm)
Mike,
Thank you so much for your contributions to the iSchool and for teaching info 200. It is your teaching in that class that got me where I am today.
Thanks again!
FromEvelyn Carlson(December 3rd, 2014 7:10 pm)
“Now somewhere in the Black Mountain Hills of Dakota
There lived a young boy named Rocky Raccoon,
And one day his woman ran off with another guy,
Hit young Rocky in the eye.
Rocky didn’t like that
He said, “I’m gonna get that boy”.
So one day he walked into town
Booked himself a room in the local saloon.”
Thank you for everything.
FromCarlos(December 3rd, 2014 7:46 pm)
Mike,
You changed more than the university of Washington’s concept of information and librarianship. You changed everyone’s vision of the transformative power of information access. Gail Dykstra
FromGail Dykstra(December 3rd, 2014 8:51 pm)
Thank you for always being ready to lend an ear, ask hard questions, and guide us in the right direction!
The energy you injected into our field of study was contagious.
I hope to continue to be challenged and infected by your endless curiousity, that you periodically prod us on from your so-called “retirement” perch. I don’t know that we can let you slip away so easily…
Lots Of Love And Blessings To You And Your Loved Ones!
Que Viva!! ;P
FromMario Sanchez(December 3rd, 2014 9:22 pm)
Mike,
You have been a game changer for the field. Many of us wouldn’t be part of this work without you and your leadership at the Ischool.
A heart felt thank you and congratulations!
Brian Bannon
FromBrian Bannon(December 3rd, 2014 9:38 pm)
When I transferred with my company to Seattle in 1999, I was looking to further my education. I looked around at several schools in the area. I happened on the iSchool before it was the iSchool and Terry Brooks told me about this new program in this new Information School that the incoming Dean was creating soon – an MS in Information Management. It sounded like just what I was looking for. I’m proud to have been in the first cohort of the Evening MSIM program and help you shape that program over 10 years ago, Mike.
FromBecause of the work you did to create the iSchool and the MSIM program, I get to work every day using the ideas and concepts that I learned there.
Thank you, Mike and Good Luck!
Andy Everett
MSIM 2003
Metadata Librarian/Taxonomist
Washington State DOT
Andy Everett(December 3rd, 2014 11:41 pm)
Mike, not only did you change the face of education in the information field, you opened the door for me to be a part of that– many thanks to you for all you have done for all of us. You’re a lasting inspiration for everyone, and I know that you’ll be equally amazing in your retirement. Enjoy!!
FromMike Crandall(December 4th, 2014 12:05 am)
Mike,
It has been a huge honor to work with you at the iSchool. I will miss your energy, your can-do attitude, your fearlessness, your quick wit and your quick mind. You are a true visionary. A legendary figure. Plus you know every Springsteen and Beatles lyric ever written.
FromMichele Norris(December 4th, 2014 12:05 am)
Mike,
Thank you for everything you have done for the iSchool. Even for those of us who never had a chance to meet you, your impact is known and greatly appreciated.
Best of luck on your retirement endeavors!
FromPeter Ellis(December 4th, 2014 4:03 am)
Mike, thanks so much for your contribution to the iSchool. I was just telling my wife this afternoon how much I appreciate the people at the iSchool and you have encapsulated so many of the positive attributes here. So helpful, smart, caring, fun. You’ve been a wonderful example to many here.
thanks!
FromTim Carlson(December 4th, 2014 4:51 am)
Congratulations, Mike! It was a privilege to be a member of the first dMLIS cohort. The program radically changed my professional life. I am deeply grateful you pushed to create it. It took your influence far beyond the Puget Sound, & that’s a great thing!
FromMy favorite Eisenbergism is “metadata.” You taught it the first day – long before Snowden, the NSA & the media made it a catch phrase.
Best wishes in your next endeavors. I’m certain they will be rewarding.
Cheers!
Dorothy Harris
dMLIS 2005
Dorothy Harris(December 4th, 2014 6:27 am)
Mike,
You were a cheerleader and resource who was invaluable during the effort to reinstate teacher librarians into Bellevue secondary schools. It took five years, but the effort led to positive and promising changes that reflected your vision of the importance of teacher librarians in the 21st century. I know that you have supported many advocates over the years and you are truly a champion for students of all ages.
In gratitude and with best wishes for a well-deserved and richly rewarding retirement,
Jeani Littrell-Kwik
FromMLS 1992
Jeani Littrell-Kwik(December 4th, 2014 11:03 am)
2
FromBenjamin Davis(December 4th, 2014 7:54 pm)
Mike’s a big baseball guy. He loves his team(s). So much so he taught a baseball course at the iSchool. He’s the biggest hitter school libraries, and libraries in general, have ever, ever had. He put lipstick to information management, informatics and librarianship. He’s been described as the best kind of Superman-bulldog to have in your corner. For all of you who’ve had him in your corner, we are lucky folk.
I wish you and Carol the best retirement one could ask for, knowing your legacy, together, will continue to impact thousands and thousands more.
All my best,
Deborah Gallaher UW-MLIS 2004
FromNathan Hale High School Library, Seattle, WA
Deborah Gallaher(December 4th, 2014 8:11 pm)
Mike,
FromHaving had the privilege of being a beneficiary your work with Seattle Schools, and the Big 6, you really helped clarify for me what being a teacher librarian could be. In fact, I still use one of your quotes as my email signature.
“.. the library is everywhere,
not just in that room with books
and shelves and computers and tables
Mike Eisenberg
May you have a long and interesting retirement.
Mindy T
Mindy Terr(December 4th, 2014 8:30 pm)
Hello Mike,
While many know you as “the Godfather of the iSchool” & the Founding Father of the Big6, I will never forget your willingness to advocate for school teacher-librarians. When Federal Way cut their FT School Librarians, you traveled down I-5 to meet with them in the local KCLS Branch. When the BSD405 School Board lost their minds & cut Secondary School Librarians, you hosted a strategy session in an iSchool conference room. You never stopped preaching (eloquently & loudly) that all students deserve not only high quality access to information – but quality professionals that can help teach them how to be “effective users of information.” For that I will always be eternally grateful.
Best of luck in the future, and know that in my library, and in countless others;the teaching of Critical Thinking around Information Literacy is a shared vision that you have helped create.
Gratefully,
FromDavid Nelson
Aki Kurose Library
David Nelson(December 4th, 2014 8:32 pm)
In 2009, when I was an elementary TL in the Bellevue School District, BSD announced that it would be reassigning all secondary librarians to classroom teaching positions the following school year. A group of us met with Mike to see what he thought the best course of action was for preventing this from happening. He dove in head first to fight for the cause of Bellevue students having a quality library program in every school. He wrote letters, met with school board members, and along with a couple hundred other people, attended school board meetings where he made impassioned pleas to support our libraries. While the board did not change course that year, Mike continued to work behind the scenes to advocate for reinstating highly qualified staff in our libraries. It is due in part to his advocacy that Bellevue reversed course last year and started staffing its libraries with certificated staff once again. I am grateful that he was our “Superman-bulldog” in Bellevue! Happy retirement, Mike!
Kristine
Kristine McLane
FromLibrarian/Technology Teacher
North Beach Elementary School
Kristine McLane(December 4th, 2014 8:46 pm)
Mike,
Congratulations on the next chapter of your life…Retirment! You deserve a nice long break from so much work and accomplishments you have done for the iSchool community and the UW community. You’re an iSchool legendary 🙂 I was very lucky to be at iSchool under your leadership.
Best wishes,
FromAmmy Phuwanartnurak
Ammy(December 4th, 2014 10:17 pm)
What a lucky day for UW in 1998 when you agreed to come west and take over the leadership role for the library and information school. I remember hearing about your conditions: new space, new undergraduate program, another masters program and a PHD program. Thankfully, Provost Huntsman agreed and the ischool is now among with leading schools in the country. You leave an incredible legacy. I have always admired your ability to create enthusiasm and a sense of urgency for what we do. You are the master translator — helping others see the importance and the relevance of library and information science. From UWired to ATAC, you have been a wonderful colleague and am honored to have worked with you. My best to you and Carol in this next phase. I know that you’ll bring the same energy and creativity to whatever you’re doing.
Jill McKinstry
FromLibrarian Emeritus
Jill McKinstry(December 4th, 2014 11:24 pm)
Mike, I will never forget you standing on a table and shouting to motivate the Seattle Public Schools Librarians during the time you were providing some professional development. I am still turning in a monthly memo to my admins and it’s been a huge help in communicating what libraries can be and do. Thank you so much.
Chris Gustafson
FromWhitman Middle School
Chris Gustafson(December 4th, 2014 11:31 pm)
Mike — As a UW staff person attending the MLIS program part-time, I came close to dropping out of library school. Then the buzz started about your arrival, and I heard you give a speech for the first group of incoming MLIS students under your watch. I was inspired by your energy and plans, returning to the program after being on leave. I finally finished my MLIS in 2002, and I’m so happy that I did.
Thank you, and enjoy your retirement!
Jeanette Mills
FromDirector of Visual Services
UW School of Art + Art History + Design
Jeanette Mills(December 4th, 2014 11:45 pm)
Dear Mike — Thank you for taking us from dingy backrooms to well-appointed campus digs, from limping along to growing and thriving. Your enthusiasm, drive and vision rescued me from a grad school path that wasn’t quite right and drew me into librarianship and “home”. You will always be one of my greatest professional and personal heroes. All best wishes on your retirement. I know you will keep it rockin’!
Lisa Spagnolo, Bass
FromUC Davis
UW MLIS ’01
Lisa Spagnolo(December 5th, 2014 12:04 am)
Mike,
FromWishing you the very best in your retirement!
I participated in the Seattle School District/UW “Rapid Library Transformation Initiative” and later I was involved in the UW iSchool study on delivering library services to high schools with small learning communities. Because of your inspiring leadership and infectious enthusiasm, both experiences continue to have a profound impact on how I carry out my role as teacher-librarian and deliver library services to my school community. I am forever grateful to you and for these opportunities.
Thank you!
Debbie Arthur,
Teacher Librarian
Ballard High School
Debbie Arthur(December 5th, 2014 12:22 am)
Thank you for your leadership. I was impressed with your presence and words at Washington Library Media Association conferences.
I’m sure your retirement will not be one of lounging on a beach somewhere. Your influence will continue.
Robert Fletcher, UW MLS 1969
FromRobert A. Fletcher(December 5th, 2014 4:30 pm)
Hello Professor E,
I remember taking INFO 300 from you back in 2008, and how mesmerized the class was by your enthusiasm, knowledge and natural charm. Thank you for all the support and advices you have given to me during my undergraduate (and graduate!) career. Thank you for opening so many doors for so many people by establishing and growing the UW iSchool. Wishing you a wonderful journey post-retirement!
Sincerely,
Sarah W
FromSarah W(December 6th, 2014 3:35 am)
Mike,
They used to say “what the heck is an Information School?” Because of your passion, your humor, and your dogged pursuit of excellence–now they know. You did this!
All my thanks and all my best.
FromChance Hunt(December 6th, 2014 4:48 am)
“So long and thanks for all the fish!”
Alison McGuire MLIS, LMP
Fromclass of 2001
Alison (Butler) McGuire(December 6th, 2014 5:58 am)
Mike,
Thank you for your work to make the iSchool the wonderful place for students that it is, such a wonderful place to receive knowledge! Thank you personally for supporting me, I couln’t have done it without you!
All the best to you in your future plans!
FromAnna Stolyar(December 6th, 2014 10:16 pm)
Congratulations upon your retirement, Mike. It took me a long time, but I finally got used to saying “I-School.” Your vision has been achieved; you can be proud and satisfied.
Linda Gould
FromLibrarian Emerita
UW Libraries,
Class of 1970
Linda Gould(December 7th, 2014 3:12 am)
Mike –
Congratulations on your retirement and endless thanks for your intellectual prowess, academic talent, contagious enthusiasm and all-around creative chutzpah in spearheading the transformation of the UW Library School (as it was when I started in 1972) into THE cutting-edge world leader in information education, application, research, innovation and a plethora of other i-components.
Best wishes to you and Carol for whatever the next chapter brings!
Fondly,
Marcie
FromMarcie Stone(December 7th, 2014 10:36 pm)
Thank you for school library advocacy (& other advocacy, I just know that side best)! You’re a master promoter and world visionary. We’re so glad you came and stayed so long!
Sue Weiss
FromSue Weiss(December 7th, 2014 10:51 pm)
Mike, what a career!
Congratulations are thank you for all you’ve done for me personally, professionally… disciplinary. Your legacy is tremendous. Not sure any brief comment can convey my wishes for your transition into all that’s next. But, here’s a try with the help of a prayer from the Ojibiwa Nation: “May you be strengthened by yesterday’s rain, walk straight in tomorrow’s wind, and cherish each moment of the sun today.”
The highest and best, Mike. You deserve and have earned it.
Deborah
FromAssistant Professor,
Drexel University
Deborah Turner, Class of 2009(December 7th, 2014 11:55 pm)
Thank you for all the work you did to build up the iSchoool.
As a recent grad, I didn’t realize how exceptional the UW iSchool was until after I had graduated.
FromMolly Higgins(December 8th, 2014 2:15 pm)
Mike,
It was a pleasure knowing and learning from you–thank you so much for the leadership and spirit you gave to the iSchool. All the best to you in your next chapter.
Paula
FromMSIM 2004
Paula Land(December 8th, 2014 10:12 pm)
Dear Mike,
Congratulations on your retirement and on a significant, influential, and very far-reaching international career!
Reflecting over the years that I have known you, those years when I worked in school library administration, taught for you at the iSchool, and have been advocating for school library programs as a retiree, using strategies developed by you, I cannot think of anyone who has impacted our profession more than you. Yes, your influence has affected all aspects of the library and information fields, but, perhaps, in no field more than school libraries.
I wish you and Carol well, with lots of family activities and new adventures. I hope that you and Carol will come to visit us and I’ll close with the first question I asked you long ago, if you come to Utah, would you rather ski or go on a river raft trip?
Love from Larry and me,
Sharyl
FromSharyl Smith(December 9th, 2014 4:41 am)
Mike,
When I started at SU in IST (88′), it was just SU and UCLA with an undergrad offering. I still recall the first meeting with you, Prof. Bonzi, and Prof. Nilan. You all were so excited about your field it was contagious. I’ve always tried to use the tools I took from IST in my career.
As an advisor you were the best. When I took my leave of absence you took the time to write and offer advise, even if I wasn’t able to return you wanted me to finish my education. When I was able to return you continued advising me to stay technical and stay cutting edge.
Since graduation, you’ve been a great friend and mentor. I’ve contacted you for advise on job changes, starting companies, teaching options. We also just converse about sports and music. Whatever it is you always respond with great advise and opinions.
Good luck in retirement. I’ll still be emailing about SU sports or the Seahawks!!
Kind regards,
FromEd Matthews
Ed Matthews(December 12th, 2014 7:29 pm)
Congratulations on wrapping up an amazing career at the UW! Your enthusiasm and vision for the iSchool resonated with me as one who graduated under earlier ‘classic librarian’ curricula at a time when librarianship was beginning to change.
The revitalization and expansion of the iSchool program addressed many of the changes in the technology people use and the way in which we now access and use information. It made the iSchool’s programs relevant to a new generation.
As you segue to what comes next on your post-career ‘see & do list’, may you find much that is stimulating and satisfying.
Shiela Osheroff ’69
FromShiela Keil Osheroff(December 13th, 2014 8:22 pm)
Dear Mike,
FromAs an iSchool graduate, I’m one of many who have benefited from your leadership of this great program. Many thanks and best wishes for a rewarding retirement.
Leslie Good
2nd cohort
Distance program
MLIS 2006
Leslie Good(December 15th, 2014 3:45 am)
Mike,
Thank you for the wonderful insights you’ve provided in the classroom and beyond. Your achievements are something to make example of. Hope you enjoy your well deserved rest.
Ilya
FromMSIM Class of 2012
Ilya Krivulin(December 15th, 2014 5:44 pm)
It was a pleasure and honor to work with you to strengthen the bonds between the ISchool and the Washington Library Association. They are both stronger because of it.
Enjoy your next chapter.
With best wishes,
FromCarol Schuyler
Carol Schuyler(December 16th, 2014 10:22 pm)
I remember our first day as (the inaugural) dMLIS cohort and you were talking to us about librarianship and what it meant in the world and in our communities. You had such passion (didn’t you jump onto a table?) and were so compelling, I remember biting my lip and silently chanting to myself, “Don’t cry, don’t cry!” It was such a great moment and will stay with me always: I had found my place, my people and my life’s work.
Thank you for making it happen, for me and countless others, your passion is contagious!
Have a great time in retirement – it’s all true – you deserve the very best!
Barb Eales – Ventura County Web Librarian
FromBarbara Eales(December 16th, 2014 11:54 pm)
Mike,
I so appreciate our discussions on learning and instruction in the library. I am working at an academic library and there isn’t a day where I do not put what I learned from you into practice!
Enjoy your retirement and know that you positively influenced unknown numbers of lives and will continue to do so for many, many years to come.
Yours,
FromBridget Nowlin, MA + MLIS
Visual Arts Librarian
Cornish College of the Arts
Bridget Nowlin(December 18th, 2014 2:39 am)
Dear Mike,
Thank you for your inspiration, both personally and for our profession. Your energy and enthusiasm has been a beacon for many of us and will continue to guide us as we move forward and change the world. I hope you enjoy a well-deserved retirement!
Sarah
FromSarah Evans(December 31st, 2014 7:08 pm)
Mike,
Congratulations & thank you for all you have done for the iSchool. You made a difference!
Jeannette
FromJeannette Privat(January 25th, 2015 3:33 am)
Congratulations on a well earned retirement. More time for the family, for the Camp and for the Mets!
Jodi
FromJodi Hartley(February 11th, 2015 4:46 pm)